This comforting bowl of One-Pot Lasagna Soup combines the hearty flavors of classic Italian lasagna with the ease and speed of a soup. This beginner-friendly recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking, and a short 5-minute rest before serving, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. Each spoonful delivers layers of rich tomato, savory meat, and melty cheese, all infused with garlic, oregano, and basil. As a one-pot meal, cleanup is a breeze, and you’ll spend more time savoring dinner than scrubbing pans.
Perfect for lunch or dinner, this comforting soup clocks in at about 480 calories per serving and satisfies appetites without overloading the dishwasher. Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free family meal or a warming solo dinner, this recipe promises big lasagna vibes with minimal effort. The blend of crushed tomatoes and broth creates a luscious base, while broken lasagna noodles add that familiar pasta texture. Stirring in creamy ricotta and sharp Parmesan transforms the pot into a luxuriously creamy concoction. Finally, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and fresh basil takes each bowl over the top, making this soup a true crowd-pleaser.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-POT LASAGNA SOUP
Every memorable dish starts with the right ingredients. In this section, we’ll explore the building blocks of One-Pot Lasagna Soup, highlighting what each component brings to the table and how it layers together to create that classic lasagna flavor in soup form.
- Olive oil
Serves as the flavorful cooking fat that helps to brown the meat and sauté the aromatics, adding a subtle fruity richness that carries other flavors.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage
Provides the hearty protein base and essential umami. Italian sausage brings additional spices, while ground beef offers a leaner profile—mix or match according to taste.
- Onion
Offers a sweet, savory foundation when sautéed. The soft, translucent pieces meld seamlessly into the broth, enhancing depth without overpowering.
- Garlic
Adds pungent, aromatic warmth. Minced garlic releases essential oils during cooking, creating that irresistible Italian-infused scent and taste.
- Tomato paste
Concentrates tomato flavor, bringing depth, body, and slight sweetness. Browning the paste before adding liquids intensifies the soup’s red-velvet richness.
- Dried oregano
Imparts earthy, slightly bitter notes essential to Italian cuisine. It complements the tomato base and balances the creaminess of the cheeses.
- Dried basil
Lends a sweet, peppery aroma that brightens the soup. Its classic Italian profile ties together the tomatoes, meats, and cheeses.
- Red pepper flakes
Optional but welcome for those who crave a mild kick. These flakes awaken the palate and contrast the soup’s creaminess.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors. Salt amplifies sweetness and umami, while pepper delivers gentle heat and complexity.
- Crushed tomatoes
Form the soup’s vibrant red backbone. Their bright acidity and chunky texture create a well-balanced, hearty broth.
- Chicken or beef broth
Builds the savory liquid base. Chicken broth keeps it light and mild, while beef broth deepens the soup with richer, meaty tones.
- Water
Adjusts consistency without diluting flavor. It ensures noodles cook properly and the soup stays silky rather than too thick.
- Lasagna noodles
Provide the pasta component in bite-sized pieces. Breaking them up creates familiar lasagna satisfaction in every spoonful.
- Ricotta cheese
Adds creamy, tangy generosity. Stirred in at the end, it creates a luscious, velvety texture reminiscent of layered lasagna.
- Parmesan cheese
Injects sharp, nutty umami. Melting into the broth, it intensifies the savory dimension and enriches the overall flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese
Creates that gooey, stretchy topping. Sprinkled on hot soup, it melts into soft, cheesy ribbons that beg to be savored immediately.
- Fresh basil
Works as a bright, herbal garnish. Chopped and sprinkled just before serving, it lifts the soup with perfume-like freshness.
HOW TO MAKE ONE-POT LASAGNA SOUP
Let’s walk through each step of this cozy, one-pot wonder. You’ll see how simple techniques and quality ingredients come together to create a bowl of comforting, cheesy Italian-inspired soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until well browned, using a spoon or spatula to break apart the meat. Once the pieces are nicely seared, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
2. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until the edges turn translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until you can smell the sweet, roasted aroma of the paste—this develops that deep tomato backbone.
3. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well so every bit of meat and onion is coated with those fragrant spices.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, and water, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring all ingredients meld together in a rich, steamy broth.
5. Add the broken lasagna noodles, pushing them gently to submerge beneath the liquid. Lower the heat to a simmer, and let the noodles cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they’re perfectly al dente.
6. Once the noodles are tender, stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese, folding gently until the soup turns luxuriously creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed.
7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before diving in for maximum gooey delight.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-POT LASAGNA SOUP
Serving One-Pot Lasagna Soup can be almost as fun as making it. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides and garnishes that elevate both texture and flavor. From extra-cheesy finishes to crisp salads or crusty bread, the right accompaniments can turn each bowl into an unforgettable experience—ideal for casual family dinners, potlucks, or a romantic date night in. Don’t be afraid to mix and match suggestions to find your favorite combination, and remember that presentation is half the charm: bright white bowls and vibrant green garnishes make every serving feel extra special.
- Serve alongside warm, crusty bread. A sliced baguette or sourdough loaf, lightly toasted or brushed with garlic butter, is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.
- Pair with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of baby spinach, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the soup’s creamy richness.
- Offer an array of extra cheeses. Set out small bowls of additional Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, or even crumbled feta so guests can customize their cheesy toppings.
- Drizzle with herbed olive oil or a touch of balsamic glaze. A light swirl on top adds flavor complexity and a professional-looking finish that’s easy to achieve.
HOW TO STORE ONE-POT LASAGNA SOUP
Proper storage ensures your One-Pot Lasagna Soup stays as delicious the next day as it is fresh from the stove. Whether you’re saving leftovers for busy weeknight lunches or planning to freeze portions for future convenience, following a few key guidelines will maintain its creamy texture and robust flavor. Cooling the soup quickly, choosing the right containers, and reheating gently are essential steps to preserve quality. Below are some tried-and-true tips for storing this cozy comfort food.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers
Allow the soup to cool at room temperature for no more than an hour, then transfer to clean, sealable containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep flavors bright and prevent bacterial growth.
- Freeze for long-term storage
Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. Label with the date, then freeze for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prep or busy nights.
- Thaw safely
Move containers from the freezer to the refrigerator 24 hours before use. This slow thaw helps maintain the soup’s creamy consistency and prevents separation of the dairy-based components.
- Reheat gently
Warm single servings in the microwave at 30-second intervals, stirring between each, or gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
CONCLUSION
Bringing One-Pot Lasagna Soup to your table is like sharing a warm hug in a bowl—complete with layers of tomato, meat, pasta, and cheese that echo the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna. This easy dinner or lunch option delivers on comfort and convenience, fitting seamlessly into busy schedules while still offering that home-cooked charm. With just one pot to clean, 15 minutes of prep, and a total of 35 minutes of active work and rest, it’s a simple way to impress friends, family, or yourself. Don’t forget that this recipe is flexible: swap in ground turkey for a leaner option, add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for color and nutrition, or experiment with gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. You can print this article and save it for later use, and you’ll also find a FAQ below to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, storage, or technique.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a satisfying solo meal, this One-Pot Lasagna Soup is sure to become a go-to favorite. If you give it a try, leave a comment sharing your experience, any creative tweaks you made, or questions you have. Your feedback helps build a supportive community of home cooks who love swapping tips and stories around a steaming bowl of cheesy, tomato-rich soup. Enjoy every spoonful, and happy cooking!
One-Pot Lasagna Soup
Description
This hearty lasagna soup brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine in a delightful, warming bowl. Perfectly spiced and cheesy, it's a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Season the mixture with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or beef broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are al dente, stirring occasionally.
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Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the ricotta and Parmesan cheeses until well combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve the soup hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil for garnish. Allow the mozzarella to melt slightly before serving.
Note
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine during the sautéing process.
- This soup can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Feel free to customize by adding favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
