Lasagna Soup

Introduction:

Lasagna Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, combining all the classic flavors of lasagna in a warm, rich soup. Perfect for cold nights or when you’re craving lasagna without the effort of assembling layers, this dish features ground beef, sausage, lasagna noodles, and a rich tomato-based broth. Topped with a dollop of a cheesy mixture, this soup delivers the comforting essence of lasagna in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 7 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (optional)
• 10 oz ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat:
   • In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Season with salt and pepper as you cook. Drain excess grease and set the meat aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Add Sauce and Spices:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, parsley, oregano, basil, and broth. Return the browned meat to the pot.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender (about 10-12 minutes). Add spinach, if desired, and cook until wilted.
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, stir together ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Add a dollop of the cheese mixture on top of each serving, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.

Conclusion:

Lasagna Soup is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna in an easier, one-pot dish. Perfect for cozy dinners, this soup is versatile and can be made ahead or even frozen for later. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or a simple family dinner, it’s a guaranteed hit!