Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a twist on a classic dish that we all know and love. Picture it: the fragrance of simmering herbs wafting through the air, the bubbling warmth of the broth mingling with melted cheese, and hearty pieces of pasta submerged like little treasures awaiting discovery. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I dipped my spoon into a steaming bowl of Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs. This is not just soup; it’s a cozy embrace on a chilly evening, reminiscent of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing a meal.

## Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Duration: 45 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 6
• Complexity: Simple

## Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 430 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Carbs: 34g
• Fats: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 850mg

## Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup with Savory Herbs

Imagine diving into a bowl of this lasagna soup after a long day. The tender noodles, juicy meat, and rich tomato broth form the perfect trifecta of indulgence. Each spoonful is adorned with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan that adds just the right amount of salty tang. And let’s not forget the fresh basil—its aromatic kick brightens each bowl, making this soup an unforgettable experience. It’s comfort food at its finest, transcending the traditional lasagna with a twist that effortlessly adapts to any weeknight dinner.

## The Complete Cooking Journey

## Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

## Method:

### Step 1: Heat the Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

### Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

### Step 3: Brown the Meat

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

### Step 4: Mix in the Tomatoes

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.

### Step 5: Spice It Up

Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.

### Step 6: Simmer for Flavor

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

### Step 7: Add the Noodles

Stir in the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

### Step 8: Create the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed.

### Step 9: Serve It Up

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and add a spoonful of the cheese mixture to each bowl. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

### Step 10: Add the Finishing Touch

Garnish with fresh basil leaves. If desired, drizzle with a little olive oil for enhanced flavor.

## Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Italian lasagna soup warms the heart on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad and some crusty garlic bread elevates the experience. A glass of Chianti or a bubbly sparkling water with lemon rounds out the meal perfectly!

## Storage & Leftovers Guide

You can store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up, as the noodles may absorb some liquid during storage. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.

## Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Meat Alternatives: For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and replace it with lentils or mushrooms.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as adding provolone or fontina for a unique twist!
• Noodle Types: While traditional lasagna noodles are a classic choice, you can swap them for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.

## Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Want a little more zing? Try adding a splash of red wine during Step 4 for depth of flavor. You can also introduce spinach or kale during the simmering stage for added nutrition and color.

## Reader Questions & Solutions

• Can I use pre-cooked noodles? Yes! If you’re using pre-cooked noodles, add them at the end of cooking and simmer just until heated through.
• What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs work well; the general rule is to use one-third dried in place of fresh.
• Is this recipe good for meal prep? Absolutely! This soup holds up wonderfully in the fridge and can be frozen for later.
• How can I make it spicier? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño during the sautéing stage.
• Can I make it dairy-free? Swap the cheese for vegan options and use a non-dairy cream to keep the creamy texture.

## Wrapping Up

Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or savoring a quiet dinner alone, this Hearty Cheesy Italian Lasagna Soup will bring a sense of joy and comfort that every home cook strives to create. Grab your ingredients, turn on your favorite music, and let the aromas fill your kitchen as you cook! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family—you might just inspire someone else to discover the joy of cooking. Happy eating!

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