There’s something magical about transforming a beloved classic into a comforting soup. As the aroma of garlic and Italian sausage wafts through my kitchen, I’m instantly transported to my grandmother’s cozy dining room, where plates of steaming lasagna always awaited us on chilly evenings. This Lasagna Soup recipe captures all those cherished flavors in a heartwarming bowl – perfect for when you’re craving the essence of lasagna but want something a little lighter and quicker to prepare.
Recipe at a Glance
- Servings: 2-4
- Cooking Method: Stovetop
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Let’s Cook!
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. The sizzle and aroma will set the stage for a mouthwatering meal!
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell irresistible at this point!
- Create the Soup Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Final Touches: Stir in half of the torn basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
- Cheese, Please: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese until it melts into the soup, creating a luscious, creamy texture.
Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle your steaming Lasagna Soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, watching it melt slightly into the hot soup. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil and a sprinkle of chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
As you dig in, you’ll find that each spoonful is a perfect balance of tender pasta, savory sausage, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese – all the best parts of lasagna in a comforting soup form!
Pro Tip: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
I hope this Lasagna Soup brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients, when combined with love, can create something truly special. So grab a spoon, gather your loved ones, and savor every last drop of this cozy, cheesy delight. Buon appetito!
