Lasagna is a classic comfort food, but have you ever tried making it in soup form? If you love lasagna but want a more convenient and hearty option, a recipe lasagna soup is the perfect solution! This delicious soup combines all the flavors of lasagna in a cozy, soup-filled bowl. Whether you use a lasagna soup crock pot, slow cooker lasagna soup, or even a variation with chicken, it’s a simple and affordable way to bring your favorite dish to life.
What Makes Lasagna Soup So Special?
Lasagna soup combines everything you love about lasagna—pasta, cheese, and a savory tomato-based sauce—into a warm and filling soup. The key difference is that you skip the layers and bake time, making it faster to prepare and just as tasty. You can easily customize your lasagna soup crock pot or slow cooker lasagna soup by adding different ingredients like chicken, ground beef, or veggies.
The beauty of recipe lasagna soup is that you can make it with minimal prep, and you can use the ingredients you already have on hand, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a classic lasagna soup recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Ground beef (or chicken for chicken lasagna soup)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato paste
- Crushed tomatoes
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
- Ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese as a substitute)
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Optional Add-ins:
- Spinach or other veggies for extra nutrients
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like basil or parsley)
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Stovetop Method
- Brown the meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown your ground meat (beef or chicken). Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add liquids: Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup. Let them cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in cheese: Add ricotta or cottage cheese to the soup and let it melt in for that classic lasagna flavor.
- Top and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown the meat: Cook your meat in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. Then, add the rest of the ingredients, including broken lasagna noodles, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Add cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the ricotta or cottage cheese and mozzarella. Let it melt into the soup.
Tips for a Budget-Friendly Lasagna Soup
- Use ground chicken: Ground chicken is often less expensive than beef and can make a lighter, healthier chicken lasagna soup. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save money without sacrificing flavor.
- Substitute cottage cheese: If ricotta is too expensive, use cottage cheese as a substitute. It still gives you the creamy texture you love in lasagna, at a more affordable price.
- Buy in bulk: You can often save money by buying the ingredients in bulk, especially if you make this soup frequently. For example, large containers of cheese and pasta can be used in several meals, making it a smart financial choice.
- Frozen veggies: If fresh vegetables aren’t in season, try using frozen spinach or other frozen veggies. They’re usually more affordable and just as nutritious.
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FAQs About Lasagna Soup
How Long Is Lasagna Soup Good for in the Fridge?
Lasagna soup will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors.
What Is the Lasagna Noodle Trick?
A popular trick for making lasagna soup is breaking the noodles into smaller pieces before adding them to the soup. This prevents them from getting too soggy and makes them easier to eat in a soup form.
Can You Boil Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles for Soup?
Yes, you can boil oven-ready lasagna noodles for soup. Just make sure to break them into smaller pieces before adding them to the soup, as they tend to be a little thicker than regular lasagna noodles.
What Makes Lasagna Soupy?
Lasagna soup gets its soupy consistency from the broth and crushed tomatoes. You can adjust the amount of broth to make it as thick or thin as you like.
Can You Eat 7-Day-Old Lasagna?
While lasagna can last up to a week in the fridge, you should always check for signs of spoilage, like unusual odors or changes in texture. If it smells off or looks funky, it’s best to toss it.
Can You Use Cottage Cheese Instead of Ricotta?
Yes! Cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta in lasagna soup. It’s less expensive and provides a similar creamy texture.
Does Lasagna Freeze Well?
Yes, lasagna soup freezes very well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How Long Can You Keep Homemade Soup in the Refrigerator Before It Goes Bad?
Homemade soup generally lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it properly and always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
How Long Does It Take for Lasagna to Cool Before You Put It in the Fridge?
It’s important to let your lasagna cool for about 30 minutes before putting it in the fridge. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps your lasagna fresh.
How Long Does Soup in a Jar Last in the Fridge?
Soup in a jar will last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure the jar is sealed tightly and refrigerate it promptly after it’s cooled.
Can You Leave Lasagna Out for 4 Hours?
It’s not safe to leave lasagna out for more than 2 hours. After that, harmful bacteria can start to grow, so make sure to refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Conclusion
This recipe lasagna soup is the perfect dish to make for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal. Whether you’re using a lasagna soup crock pot, slow cooker lasagna soup, or prefer a lighter chicken lasagna soup, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with some simple tips and tricks for saving money and reducing food waste, you can enjoy this comforting dish without breaking the bank. Try it today, and you might just have a new favorite dinner!