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As the cool breeze of fall sets in, the cozy appeal of hearty meals tugs at my heartstrings. One evening, with a busy schedule and the comforting desire for good food, I found myself crafting a bowl of Italian Lasagna Soup—my own twist on a classic. The rich aroma of sizzling garlic and savory Italian sausage filled my kitchen, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Sunday dinners past. This delightful one-pot meal encapsulates everything we love about traditional lasagna: tender pasta, tangy tomato broth, and a dreamy layer of creamy ricotta that brings it all together.

Perfect for a family gathering, date night, or just a night in, this Italian Lasagna Soup is incredibly adaptable. Whether you prefer sweet or spicy sausages, or even a vegetarian option, it’s a dish that caters to every palate while ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. So, let’s embrace the comfort of home cooking together with this simple yet delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why will you love Italian Lasagna Soup?

Comfort Food Classic: This delightful soup merges all the best aspects of lasagna into one hearty meal, offering nostalgic flavors that warm the soul.

One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple dirty dishes! This recipe is designed for easy preparation and simple cleanup—perfect for weeknight dinners or busy days.

Endless Versatility: Whether you crave spicy sausage or a vegetarian twist, this soup adapts effortlessly to fit your taste preferences, delighting everyone at the table.

Family-Friendly: With its rich, savory profile, this dish brings even the pickiest of eaters back for seconds, making mealtime a moment of joy and connection.

Effortless Meal Prep: Store leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for future meals; this soup’s flavors only improve with time, making it a smart choice for busy cooks!

Indulge in a steaming bowl of Italian Lasagna Soup and experience the comfort and delight it brings to your kitchen!

Italian Lasagna Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Italian Sausage – Choose sweet for a milder taste or spicy for a kick; removing the casings enhances texture.
• Yellow Onion – Adds natural sweetness; shallots are a good alternative if needed.
• Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic is ideal for aromatic depth; however, you can use powdered garlic as a substitute.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the rich foundation of the soup; fresh tomatoes will do in a pinch but may require more cooking time.
• Beef Stock – Adds layers of flavor to the broth; chicken or vegetable stock can work nicely as alternatives.
• Water – Adjusts the soup’s consistency; for more flavor, consider using extra broth instead.

For Seasoning and Pasta
• Italian Seasoning – Boosts flavor; in a pinch, use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Lasagna Pasta – Break into smaller pieces for that classic texture; whole grain or gluten-free options are great substitutes.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; remember to adjust according to broth saltiness.

For Toppings
• Fresh Basil – Provides a refreshing touch; if unavailable, dried basil can be used sparingly.
• Ricotta Cheese – Creamy and rich, it crowns the soup beautifully; cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth of flavor, but nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – This melty topping brings comfort; feel free to swap in Gouda or Provolone if desired.

This delightful Italian Lasagna Soup is bound to become a cherished family favorite!

How to Make Italian Lasagna Soup

Brown the Sausage: In a large soup pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Break it into smaller pieces, and drain excess fat if necessary to keep your soup lean.
Add Aromatics: Next, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
Mix the Base Ingredients: Now, add the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, water, and Italian seasoning to the pot along with the broken lasagna noodles. This will be the heart of your soup!
Simmer to Perfection: Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking for about 15 minutes, until your pasta is tender and ready.
Finish with Basil: Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds that vibrant, aromatic touch that makes the soup feel extra special.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a generous scoop of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Look at that creamy, melty goodness!

Optional: Garnish with extra fresh basil for a beautiful touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Italian Lasagna Soup?

As you savor your warm bowl of soup, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience and create a full, satisfying dinner.

Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the soup’s flavors while providing a crunchy, buttery texture that’s perfect for dipping.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing bring a refreshing element to cleanse the palate amidst the rich, hearty soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds vibrant colors and subtle caramelized sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the savory notes of the soup.
Herbed Focaccia: Soft and aromatic, this bread is a fantastic vehicle for soaking up every last drop of tomato broth and cheese.
Parmesan Risotto: Creamy and cheesy, this side is a luxurious addition that echoes the flavors in the soup, making for a comforting combination.
Wine Pairing: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, enhances the meal with its fruity notes and acidity that cuts through the richness of the soup.

Remember, these pairings not only create a balanced meal but also add layers of flavor that celebrate the comforts of home cooking!

Italian Lasagna Soup Variations

Feel free to mix and match to make this delicious soup your own!

Lean Protein: Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken to lighten up the meal while keeping it deliciously hearty.
Veggie Boost: Add in chopped spinach or kale for an extra layer of nutrients and a lovely green burst of color that makes the soup even healthier.
No Meat: For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with a blend of mushrooms and lentils, adding depth and richness.
Herb Explosion: Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can be tossed in along with the basil, enhancing the aromatic experience. Freshness bursts with each bite!
Warm It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add a delightful heat, bringing an exciting kick to your cozy dish.
Pasta Choices: Use whole grain or gluten-free lasagna noodles, or try mini shells for a playful texture that adds variety.
Cheesy Goodness: Increase the creamy factor by adding a handful of cream cheese to the pot just before serving, making each bowl even more indulgent.
Zesty Twist: Mix in a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for a bright, zesty finish that cuts through the richness.

Let your creativity shine as you customize your Italian Lasagna Soup!

Make Ahead Options

This Italian Lasagna Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (excluding the noodles and toppings) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply refrigerate in an airtight container, and when ready to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stove. To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, add them within the last 10-12 minutes of cooking. If you prefer to freeze, store the soup base without noodles for up to 3 months. Just cook fresh pasta when reheating, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort at the end of a busy day!

How to Store and Freeze Italian Lasagna Soup

Fridge: Store the Italian Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen and improve after a day of resting!

Freezer: Freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove and cook fresh pasta separately to prevent mushiness.

Reheating: When reheating, stir in additional broth or water as needed to adjust the consistency. Heat on medium until warmed through, ensuring an even temperature.

Leftover Toppings: If you have leftover toppings like ricotta or mozzarella, store them separately in the fridge for best results when serving!

Expert Tips for Italian Lasagna Soup

Perfect Pasta Timing: Add your lasagna noodles only 10-12 minutes before serving. This ensures they stay al dente and avoid mushiness in your Italian Lasagna Soup.
Saute Wisely: Take your time browning the sausage; this step enhances the soup’s overall flavor. Rushing here can result in underdeveloped tastes.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust the seasonings at the end. Remember, salt levels will differ based on the broth used in your Italian Lasagna Soup.
Adjusting Consistency: If the soup thickens too much while reheating, gradually add more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency, preventing a dry dish.
Fresh Herbs Matter: For the best flavor, opt for fresh basil if possible, as it elevates your soup’s aroma and taste dramatically compared to dried options.

Italian Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of Italian sausage should I use?
Absolutely! You can choose between sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. Sweet sausage offers mild flavors, while spicy gives that extra kick. For better texture, I often remove the sausage from its casing before browning it.

How do I store any leftovers of Italian Lasagna Soup?
You can store your Italian Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, improving the overall taste! Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Can I freeze Italian Lasagna Soup?
Yes! To freeze, I recommend storing the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during freezing. When you’re ready to have your soup, simply reheat it on the stove and cook fresh pasta separately.

What if the pasta gets mushy in my Italian Lasagna Soup?
If your pasta becomes mushy, it usually means it was added too early. I suggest adding the lasagna noodles about 10-12 minutes before you’re ready to serve. This way, they stay perfectly al dente and contribute to the heartiness of the soup without turning soft.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute ricotta with tofu or dairy-free cream cheese, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles, and make sure your broth is also gluten-free!

What can I add to my Italian Lasagna Soup for extra nutrition?
Very! You can incorporate nutrient-rich veggies like spinach or kale into your soup. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they retain their color and nutrients. You might also consider swapping out the sausage for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.