Lasagna Soup Recipe

Author:

Lena

Published:

November 24, 2025

Bowl of lasagna soup recipe topped with cheese and basil leaves

Lasagna soup recipe nights started for me during a cold evening when everyone needed something warm, simple, and satisfying. I had no time for layering or baking, just one big pot and a craving for something that felt like comfort food without the work.

This soup gives you everything you love about classic lasagna. It has rich tomato flavor, tender noodles, creamy cheese, and fragrant herbs, all in a cozy bowl. You can control how thick or brothy it is, make it ahead, and even adjust the flavor to fit your mood.

It is the kind of meal that brings people to the table fast, and they leave it full and happy.

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Soup Recipe

This easy lasagna soup is everything you want on a busy evening. It is cozy, flavorful, and built to flex with your needs. Whether you want something kid-friendly, protein-packed, or perfect for leftovers, this soup has you covered.

This lasagna soup recipe is rich, flavorful, and comes together in one pot with no layering and no stress.

Here is what makes it a repeat favorite in my kitchen:

  • One pot means less cleanup and more time to relax
  • The texture is completely customizable from brothy to thick and hearty
  • It is easy to make ahead and reheat without turning to mush
  • The cheese topping melts into each bowl for a creamy, satisfying finish
  • You can adjust the seasoning for mild or bold flavor profiles
  • Everyone at the table finds something to love

This recipe is a win for nights when you want warmth and comfort without complicated steps. For another warm and comforting option that requires even fewer ingredients, try this five-ingredient potato soup that comes together in one blender.

Chunky or Brothy? How to Choose the Texture You Love

Lasagna soup can be as light or as hearty as you want it to be. The secret is in how you control the broth, noodles, and cheese. This simple framework will help you get it just right every time.

Adjust broth-to-pasta ratio or stir in cheese at the end to create your perfect lasagna soup texture.

Here is how to dial it in:

For a thicker, hearty soup:
Use a little less broth and let the noodles simmer directly in the pot. They will absorb liquid as they cook and create a comforting, stew-like feel. Stir in the ricotta mixture just before serving to make it even creamier.

For a brothy, lighter version:
Add more broth and cook the noodles separately. This keeps them firmer and prevents the soup from becoming too thick over time. It is a great option if you plan to store leftovers or enjoy it over several days.

For a balanced middle ground:
Simmer noodles in the soup but serve right away. The texture will be soft and comforting but still hold its shape.

Lena’s tip: If you are making this for meal prep, keep the cooked noodles in a separate container and add them to each bowl when reheating. This keeps the texture fresh and avoids soggy pasta.

Ingredients for Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup recipe ingredients arranged on a wooden board

This lasagna soup uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create rich flavor with minimal effort. Each ingredient plays a role in building the comfort and depth of this one-pot dish.

Here is what you will need:

  • Lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • Olive oil
  • Yellow onion, diced
  • Garlic cloves, minced
  • Tomato paste
  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Marinara sauce (choose one without added wine)
  • Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • Dried basil
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried parsley
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • A pinch of sugar to balance acidity
  • Lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces
  • Fresh spinach (optional)
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Why it works:
Tomato paste deepens the tomato flavor and gives the broth a thicker base. Using a mix of crushed and diced tomatoes adds both texture and body. Ricotta adds a creamy finish that melts into the broth, while mozzarella and Parmesan bring stretch and salt. The broth you choose will shape the overall richness, so go for vegetable if you want it lighter or chicken for a fuller flavor.

This mix makes every spoonful feel layered, even though it all comes together in one pot.

Did you know?
Cooked tomato products like crushed tomatoes and paste are rich in lycopene, a plant compound that may support heart health and provide antioxidant benefits.
Learn more about lycopene and its benefits

How to Make Lasagna Soup

Making this lasagna soup is as simple as building flavor step by step in one big pot. You start with the base, simmer the broth, and finish with a rich cheese topping that melts right into the bowl.

Brown your meat, simmer tomatoes and broth with pasta, then serve with a creamy cheese dollop on top.

Follow these steps:

  1. Warm a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until browned, then drain any excess fat if needed.
  2. Add olive oil and the diced onions to the pot. Cook for four to five minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for thirty seconds more.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and marinara. Add the dried herbs, red pepper flakes if using, and the broth. Mix everything well to combine.
  4. Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add the broken lasagna noodles and simmer for ten to fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  5. Stir in fresh spinach if using, and cook for one more minute. Taste and adjust the flavor with a pinch of sugar or extra broth if needed.
  6. In a small bowl, mix ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until smooth.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture. Finish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness.

That is it. No layering, no baking, just classic lasagna flavor made simple. If that creamy cheese swirl at the end has your attention, you might also love this cozy broccoli cheddar soup with a velvety finish.

Common Lasagna Soup Problems (And How to Fix Them)

Even the easiest recipes have moments where things feel a little off. This section is here to help you troubleshoot quickly so you can still enjoy a cozy, satisfying bowl no matter what happens.

Problem: The soup is too thick
Add a splash of warm broth to loosen it up. Stir gently and heat through until the texture feels balanced again.

Problem: The noodles turned mushy
Next time, cook and store the noodles separately if you plan to make this ahead. For now, try adding a handful of baby spinach or extra broth to shift the texture and bring it back to life.

Problem: The flavor tastes too acidic
A pinch of sugar or a splash of extra broth helps mellow the sharpness. Stir, taste again, and repeat if needed.

Problem: The soup feels bland
Add a small pinch of salt, more dried herbs, or a bit of grated Parmesan. Taste and adjust until the flavor pops.

Problem: The noodles are clumping together
Give them a gentle stir a few times during cooking. If they still clump, you can drizzle in a teaspoon of olive oil and stir to separate them.

With just a few small tweaks, you can turn any batch around and make it work for you. If you love set-it-and-forget-it meals, this crock pot taco soup is another comforting favorite with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Timing and Texture Chart: When to Add What

Getting the right texture in lasagna soup is all about when you add each component. Use this guide to match your soup to the feel you want, whether that is light and brothy or rich and hearty.

For a chunky, stew-like texture

  • Use less broth
  • Add noodles directly to the soup during simmering
  • Stir in cheese mixture right before serving

For a classic balance

  • Use the full amount of broth
  • Add noodles to the soup and serve soon after they are cooked
  • Spoon cheese mixture on top of each bowl

For a light, brothy version

  • Add extra broth at the end if needed
  • Cook noodles in a separate pot and add to bowls just before serving
  • Add cheese only if desired for a lighter finish

Best time to add spinach

  • Add during the final one to two minutes of cooking to keep it fresh and green

Best time to taste and adjust flavor

  • Right before serving, after all ingredients are combined and heated through

This chart gives you full control over the outcome, so your soup turns out just how you like it every time.

Variations for Lasagna Soup

This lasagna soup is easy to make your own. Whether you need a vegetarian version, a dairy-light option, or something more protein-packed, these variations let you adjust without losing the comfort factor.

Vegetarian Lasagna Soup

To make vegetarian lasagna soup, use vegetable broth and swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.

  • Use brown or green lentils, cooked in the soup for a rich texture
  • Sauté diced mushrooms with onions to create a savory base
  • Stick with vegetable broth to keep it fully plant-based
  • Add spinach and cheese topping as usual, or skip the cheese for a lighter bowl

Dairy-Light Version

  • Use just a small spoon of ricotta or swap it for a dairy-free cheese blend
  • Add nutritional yeast to the broth for a subtle cheesy depth
  • Garnish with fresh herbs instead of the full cheese mix

Gluten-Free Option

  • Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or any short gluten-free pasta
  • Cook the pasta separately to keep it from breaking apart in the broth
  • Check the marinara sauce label to be sure it is certified gluten-free

Protein-Boosted Version

  • Choose lean ground turkey or ground chicken
  • Stir in white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber
  • Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the cheese mixture for more creaminess and a bit of tang

You can mix and match these ideas to fit your weeknight or your wellness goals without missing out on the comfort of the original.

For a creamier, chili-style soup without tomatoes, this award-winning white chicken chili is a reader favorite worth bookmarking.

Meal-Prep and Make-Ahead Tips

Lasagna soup is one of those recipes that actually gets better the next day. With a few simple steps, you can prep it ahead and enjoy fresh-tasting bowls all week without soggy noodles or lost flavor.

Cook the soup base and store noodles separately to enjoy fresh, non-mushy bowls all week.

Make-ahead workflow

  1. Cook the soup base without adding the noodles
  2. Boil the pasta separately and rinse under cool water to stop cooking
  3. Store soup and noodles in separate containers in the fridge
  4. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and stir in noodles just before serving
  5. Add the cheese topping fresh to each bowl for best texture

Freezer tips

  • Freeze the soup base in individual portions for easy thawing
  • Skip the noodles before freezing to keep the texture perfect
  • Freeze small cubes of extra broth or cheese mixture for quick flavor boosts later

This method keeps everything tasting as if you just made it, even a few days later.

What Makes This Lasagna Soup Recipe the Smarter Choice

This version of lasagna soup stands out because it solves real kitchen problems. It is not just about flavor. It is about making your weeknight easier, your leftovers better, and your meal more flexible. Here is what makes it work so well:

  • Texture is in your control from the start with options for chunky, classic, or brothy
  • You can prepare parts ahead and keep the pasta perfectly cooked for days
  • The cheese blend adds creaminess without making the whole pot heavy
  • Kid-friendly flavor dials let you go mild or turn up the herbs and spice
  • The soup is freezer-ready in portions that reheat beautifully
  • Every bite feels layered and satisfying without layering anything in a pan
  • Clear swaps for vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-light versions help you adapt it with ease

This is a weeknight recipe that respects your time and still delivers real comfort in every spoonful.

Bowl of lasagna soup recipe topped with cheese and basil leaves

One-Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

All the cozy, cheesy flavor of classic lasagna in one simple soup. Easy to customize, perfect for prep-ahead meals, and always satisfying.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 385 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • Olive oil
  • Yellow onion diced
  • Garlic cloves minced
  • Tomato paste
  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Marinara sauce no wine
  • Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • Dried basil
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried parsley
  • Red pepper flakes optional
  • A pinch of sugar
  • Lasagna noodles broken into small pieces
  • Fresh spinach optional
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Warm a large pot over medium heat. Add ground meat with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, then drain if needed.
  • Add olive oil and diced onion. Sauté until soft, then stir in garlic.
  • Mix in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, herbs, pepper flakes, and broth. Stir well.
  • Bring to a gentle boil. Add broken lasagna noodles and simmer for ten to fifteen minutes until pasta is tender.
  • Stir in spinach at the end. Adjust flavor with sugar or more broth.
  • In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  • Ladle soup into bowls. Top with cheese mixture and garnish with herbs.

Notes

  • Store noodles separately for best leftovers
  • Taste and adjust seasoning right before serving
Keyword easy lasagna soup, hearty Italian soup, lasagna soup recipe, one-pot lasagna soup, vegetarian lasagna soup

Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Comfort, Every Time

This lasagna soup recipe is one I return to again and again. It gives me everything I need in one bowl. It is comforting, flexible, and ready for whatever the day brings.

You can make it mild and cozy or bright and herb-packed. You can prep it on a Sunday and enjoy it fresh all week. It is a meal that adapts to your routine while still feeling like something special.

If you are new to one-pot soups or just need a break from the usual dinner rotation, this one is a game changer. Give it your own twist, serve it hot, and watch it disappear.

Two bowls of lasagna soup recipe served with bread

FAQ

Here are the most common questions home cooks ask about making lasagna soup, along with clear and tested answers.

What ingredients make lasagna soup taste like real lasagna?

The key is using a mix of crushed and diced tomatoes, classic Italian herbs like basil and oregano, and a creamy cheese blend made with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. These ingredients create the rich, layered flavor that brings lasagna to mind.

Can I make lasagna soup ahead of time or freeze it?

Yes, absolutely. Make the soup base and store it in the fridge or freezer without the noodles. Add freshly cooked pasta and the cheese topping when you are ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I keep the noodles from getting soggy in lasagna soup?

Cook the noodles separately and store them in a separate container. Add them to the soup just before serving or reheating. This keeps them firm and prevents them from soaking up too much broth.

Can I make lasagna soup without ground beef?

Yes. You can use ground turkey or skip meat entirely for a vegetarian version. Lentils, mushrooms, or even white beans make great substitutes and still give the soup a hearty feel.

What can I use instead of lasagna noodles?

Any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or broken spaghetti will work. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose and cook it separately if you plan to store leftovers.

How do I thicken or thin lasagna soup if the texture seems off?

To thicken, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in more cheese. To thin it out, add a splash of warm broth until it reaches the consistency you like.

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