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Mouthwatering One Pot Lasagna Soup

Name: Mouthwatering One Pot Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 32 oz chicken broth; 1 cup water; 2 tsp tomato paste; 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 1 cup frozen chopped spinach; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 4 slices mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; Parmesan cheese, for garnish

There’s something heartwarming about a pot of bubbling soup simmering on the stove, filling the air with aromas that take you back to cozy evenings with family. If you love the comforting layers of traditional lasagna but crave something more practical, you’re in for a treat with this incredible One Pot Lasagna Soup. This recipe brings all the beloved flavors of classic lasagna into a single, hearty bowl, perfect for cold nights or busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Why Make This Recipe

It combines the rich flavors of lasagna into a comforting soup, making it a unique twist on a classic dish.
Everything is prepared in one pot, saving you dishes and time in the kitchen.
The recipe is adaptable and can be tailored to fit your family’s preferences, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Simple Way to Prepare One Pot Lasagna Soup

Making One Pot Lasagna Soup is straightforward, and the steps ensure you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time. Just follow this easy guide, and you’ll be serving up warm bowls of comfort before you know it.

Start with the Ground Beef
In a large pot over medium-high heat, begin by cooking a pound of ground beef. Allow it to brown evenly while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This process is essential as it builds a flavorful base for the soup. If you enjoy a deeper flavor, let the beef develop some crispy browned bits before draining off any excess grease. This extra step adds a nice depth to your soup that is worth the wait.
Add Aromatics
Next, add three finely minced garlic cloves and a half a diced yellow onion to your pot. These aromatics enhance the overall flavor profile. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together and allow it to cook over medium-low heat for about five minutes. This will soften the onion and release those heavenly aromas, filling your kitchen with delicious scents.
Incorporate the Base Ingredients
Pour in a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, 32 ounces of chicken broth (or more if needed), one cup of water, and two teaspoons of tomato paste. These ingredients form the rich soup base. Break the lasagna noodles into pieces (around two inches each) and add them to the mix. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well combined. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. As soon as it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for ten minutes. This simmering step allows the noodles to cook and soften properly.
Add the Spinach and Cream
After the noodles have had time to cook, stir in one cup of frozen chopped spinach and a quarter cup of heavy cream. This addition not only contributes to the soup’s creaminess but also packs in some nutritious greens. Cook on low heat, uncovered, for an additional five minutes. This is the time when flavors meld together beautifully, so feel free to taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Serve with Cheese
For the grand finale, place a slice of mozzarella cheese into the bottom of your serving bowl before ladling the hot lasagna soup over it. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese, creating a decadent layer of gooey goodness. Top each bowl with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese and, if desired, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Each spoonful will remind you of the layered goodness of lasagna, delivered in a delightful soup form.

Best Way to Store One Pot Lasagna Soup

If you find yourself with leftovers, this lasagna soup stores beautifully and can be enjoyed over several days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a pot on low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during refrigeration.

How to Serve One Pot Lasagna Soup

When it comes to serving your One Pot Lasagna Soup, there are numerous delightful options to make the meal even more enjoyable:

Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. The combination of flavors will elevate your experience, making it feel like a true Italian feast.
Salads: A side salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements this hearty soup beautifully. Consider a simple Caesar salad for the classic touch.
Additional Garnishes: Feel free to get creative! A sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top adds extra flavor. You might even experiment with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Tips to Make One Pot Lasagna Soup

Here are some pro tips to ensure your lasagna soup turns out perfect every time:

Browning the Meat: Don’t rush this step; the additional depth of flavor from well-browned beef is what sets this soup apart.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook. This way, you can personalize the flavor profile to meet your preferences.
Don’t Skip the Heavy Cream: Adding heavy cream makes a significant difference in the richness of the soup, giving it that comforting, luxurious mouthfeel.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up or cater to dietary preferences, here are a couple of variations:

Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or turkey for a leaner choice. This will subtly alter the flavor while still maintaining the comfort that defines this soup.
Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or your favorite dairy-free alternatives. You can also try vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to store the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy. Cook the noodles fresh when ready to serve.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: If you’re looking for some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes while cooking or using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! If you have fresh spinach on hand, simply chop it and add it to the pot right before serving. It will wilt quickly and incorporate nicely into the soup.

Nutritional Info

While this recipe results in a deliciously hearty soup, it’s also quite nutritious. Ground beef provides protein, while spinach adds essential vitamins and minerals. The combination of dairy can also offer a good source of calcium. Below are approximate nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g

What to Serve With

To round out your meal, consider pairing your One Pot Lasagna Soup with a few of these options:

Cheesy Garlic Bread: Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for dipping.
Caprese Salad: The classic combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a fresh, vibrant counterpart to the warm soup.
Vegetable Platter: Fresh vegetables with hummus or ranch dressing make a light and healthy side that balances the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your One Pot Lasagna Soup comes out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Not Browning the Meat: Skipping the browning step can lead to a less flavorful soup. Take the time to get that nice color for more depth.
Overcooking the Noodles: Monitor the soup while simmering and check for doneness. Overcooked noodles can make the soup mushy.
Ignoring the Seasonings: Always taste your soup as you prepare it. Adjusting the seasonings can be the key to elevating the flavor profile to your liking.

Creating the perfect One Pot Lasagna Soup is not just about following a recipe; it’s about enjoying the process and savoring the resulting dish. With its cozy, rich flavors and ease of preparation, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, invite family or friends over, and enjoy some satisfying bowls of deliciousness. Happy cooking!