This Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a cozy hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender beef, cheesy goodness, and all the flavors of classic lasagna—without the layering!
Making this soup is super easy. I just cook the meat, throw in some pasta and sauce, and let it bubble away. Perfect for chilly nights when you want something warm and hearty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe relies on ground beef for flavor and substance. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute.
Marinara Sauce: I love using store-bought marinara sauce for convenience. You can also use homemade if you prefer. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, try a roasted red pepper sauce.
Pasta: Traditional lasagna noodles work well, but I enjoy using mafaldine for its ruffled edges that hold onto the sauce beautifully. Gluten-free pasta varieties or even zucchini noodles can make excellent swaps.
Cheese: Ricotta is essential for that creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, a cashew-based ricotta can be a tasty alternative. For mozzarella, look for low-fat versions if you’re cutting calories.
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Flavors in This Soup?
Layering flavors is crucial in making your soup delicious. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start by cooking the onions until they’re soft—this builds a great base.
- Ensure the ground beef is nicely browned for that rich flavor.
- Let the herbs and spices cook briefly with the garlic to release their oils; this boosts the flavor even more.
- Finally, let the soup simmer so all the ingredients can meld together beautifully.
This technique really enhances the final taste of the soup, making each bowl a delightful experience!
Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (or use mafaldine pasta)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes before you can enjoy this comforting bowl of cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a great base for the soup.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup from being greasy.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. This adds an amazing depth of flavor!
4. Mix in the Liquids and Spices:
Pour in the beef broth, marinara sauce, and diced tomatoes (including their juice) into the pot. Then add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmer:
Bring the soup mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors can come together nicely.
6. Cook the Pasta:
Add the broken lasagna noodles (or mafaldine pasta) to the soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is soft but still has a bit of bite to it.
7. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and gently stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is creamy and combined.
8. Serve Your Soup:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded mozzarella. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a splash of color and flavor.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious lasagna soup immediately, alongside crusty garlic bread or a refreshing salad. Dive in and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Happy cooking and enjoy your comforting and cheesy lasagna soup!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef in This Soup?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef is a great option if you want to cut down on fat. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning slightly since leaner meat can sometimes taste milder.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with crumbled tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer bags or airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
