Name: Lasagna Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes with juice; 1 (24 oz) jar spaghetti sauce (Marinara preferred); 6 cups water; 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules (or 4 cubes); 4 teaspoons beef bouillon granules (or 4 cubes); 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 (16 ounce) box lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (about 8 full pieces); 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; Ricotta cheese, for topping; Shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 73 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying the rich, comforting flavors of traditional lasagna but crave a quicker, heartier bowl of soup, you’re in for a treat with this Lasagna Soup Recipe. It captures everything we love about lasagna’s robust tomato sauce, savory meat, and layers of cheese, all simmered together in a cozy, spoonable form. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want that indulgent taste without the fuss of assembling layers, this soup delivers satisfying depth, cheesy goodness, and a touch of Italian flair in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat lay of ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface, showing nine clear glass bowls and one white bowl. The white bowl filled with raw, pink ground meat with visible strands is near the center left. Surrounding it clockwise: a glass bowl with diced purple and white onions, a glass bowl with a bright red textured sauce, a small glass bowl with grated pale yellow cheese, two small metal bowls with green herbs, a bay leaf next to them, a white bowl filled with yellow ridged pasta pieces, a small glass bowl with pale minced garlic, and a clear glass measuring cup with water. Another glass bowl contains a chunky red mixture with small chopped vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lasagna Soup Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Each component is essential: the ground beef offers savory richness, the spaghetti sauce and tomatoes bring bright acidity and warmth, while the herbs and cheeses add that unmistakable Italian charm.

Lean ground beef (1 1/2 pounds): Provides a hearty, savory base packed with protein and flavor.

Medium onion, chopped (1): Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s foundation.
Garlic cloves, minced (4): Infuses the broth with that signature punch of aromatic warmth.
Petite diced tomatoes, canned (2 14.5 oz cans): Brings bright acidity and chunky texture that balances the richness.

Spaghetti sauce or marinara (1 jar, 24 oz): Deepens the tomato flavor and harmonizes the ingredients.
Chicken bouillon granules (4 teaspoons): Enhances savory complexity for a more robust broth.
Beef bouillon granules (4 teaspoons): Adds a rich meaty depth that complements the beef.

Water (6 cups): Forms the soup’s liquid base and helps meld all flavors.
Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs giving that classic Italian herbaceous kick.
Basil (1 teaspoon): Provides a fresh, slightly sweet note that brightens the dish.

Bay leaf (1): Adds subtle earthy undertones during simmering.
Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (1/2 box, 16 ounces): The star pasta that gives the soup its signature bite and heartiness.
Parmesan cheese, shredded (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, salty finish stirred in right before serving.
Ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheese: For dolloping and melting on top, creating that creamy, cheesy lasagna feel.

How to Make Lasagna Soup Recipe

The image shows three black cast iron pots placed side by side on a white marbled surface. The first pot contains raw ground beef mixed with chopped onions, the beef layer is deep red with fine texture spread evenly across the pot. The second pot is filled with dark red stew or sauce with visible herbs and small vegetables, and a wooden spoon is resting in the pot as if stirring the mixture, creating a shiny and slightly oily surface. The third pot holds the same red stew or sauce base, but now topped with a mound of grated white cheese in the center, contrasting with the darker sauce underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef with Onion and Garlic

Start by heating a large soup pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook them together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. This step builds the foundation of rich, savory flavor, so take your time to get a nice caramelization. Don’t forget to salt and pepper to taste while cooking—it brings out all those delicious aromas.

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes, Sauce, Bouillon, and Seasonings

Drain off any excess grease from the beef mixture and then add your petite diced tomatoes with their juices, the spaghetti sauce or marinara, chicken and beef bouillon granules, water, Italian seasoning, basil, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring it up to a rolling boil. This is when the flavors start to meld beautifully, setting the stage for that comforting, hearty broth that you’ll love slurping up.

Step 3: Simmer to Develop Deep Flavors

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the soup bubble away for about 25 minutes. This slow simmer allows the herbs and spices to fully infuse the broth, and the meat becomes tender and flavorful. It also thickens the soup nicely without needing any extra thickeners—a natural depth of flavor from good ingredients and patience.

Step 4: Cook the Lasagna Noodles in the Soup

Next, stir in the broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot. Let them cook submerged in the hot broth until tender—around 10 to 15 minutes. These pasta pieces soak up the flavors while giving the soup a delightful chewiness that really mimics that classic lasagna texture in a fun, cozy way.

Step 5: Final Touches and Cheese Addition

Remove the bay leaf from the pot and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese about 5 minutes before you’re ready to serve. This cheese melts into the soup, enriching it with a subtle salty creaminess. When it’s time to eat, ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with dollops of creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella cheese for that perfect finish.

How to Serve Lasagna Soup Recipe

Garnishes

The best part about serving this Lasagna Soup Recipe is all the cheesy, creamy garnishes you get to add right before digging in. A spoonful of ricotta dolloped on top feels indulgent and smooth, while shredded mozzarella melts wonderfully into the hot soup, giving you that stretchy, gooey cheese experience we all adore. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness, too.

Side Dishes

This soup is satisfying on its own but pairing it with a crunchy garlic bread or a simple green salad makes for a truly rounded Italian-inspired meal. Garlic bread offers a crispy, buttery contrast that’s perfect for dipping, while a fresh salad adds a light, crisp balance to the rich, hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd or a fun presentation, serve this soup in mini ramekins or crocks placed on a tray with small plates of garlic croutons and a variety of shredded cheeses on the side. Guests can customize their bowls with extra cheese or herbs. Another charming idea is to serve it family-style in a big pot at the center of the table, encouraging everyone to scoop their own hearty portions and share the warmth together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lasagna Soup Recipe leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Store the soup in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors. The noodles will continue softening the longer they sit, so if you plan to eat leftovers, keep in mind the pasta texture may be slightly tenderer the next day.

Freezing

If you want to stash this soup for longer, it freezes well. Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Frozen lasagna soup lasts up to 3 months and is a lifesaver for busy weeks when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. You may want to add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing. Reheat until the soup is hot and bubbly. Add fresh toppings like ricotta and mozzarella again to revive that luscious last layer of cheesy delight.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and replace the bouillon granules with vegetable broth or bouillon. You might want to sauté mushrooms or add extra vegetables like zucchini and spinach for added texture and flavor.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Broken lasagna noodles are ideal because they mirror the classic lasagna texture and the size is perfect for spooning up bites of soup. However, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or small shells in a pinch.

Can I use homemade tomato sauce instead of jarred spaghetti sauce?

Yes, homemade tomato sauce can make your Lasagna Soup Recipe even more special. Just be sure it’s well-seasoned to keep that rich, flavorful profile that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

How can I make this soup spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmering step or stir in some diced jalapeños with the onions and garlic to introduce a gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the tomato base.

Is this soup freezer-friendly with the noodles already cooked?

It’s best to undercook the noodles slightly if you’re freezing the soup, as they will soften more during freezing and reheating. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup without noodles and cook fresh pasta when reheating for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Soup Recipe is a joyous twist on a classic favorite that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to the table. It’s straightforward to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and enriched with all those layers of Italian flavor we crave. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection, so don’t hesitate—grab your pot and get cooking!