Picture this: a chilly evening, the kitchen windows steaming up, and the rich, hearty aroma of simmering tomato and beef wafting through the house. That’s the magic of my Ultimate Comfort One-Pot Lasagna Soup – Family Favorite. I first whipped up this gem on a rainy weekend when my family was craving something cozy but I didn’t have the energy for a full layered lasagna. Let me tell you, it was an instant hit!
Ever since that day, this one-pot wonder has been on repeat in our home. It’s everything you adore about lasagna—think melty cheese, savory meat, and tender pasta—but in a warm, slurpy bowl that’s so much easier to make. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you because I know it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Category: Soup, Main Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
What You’ll Need
Whenever I’m gearing up to make this comforting dish, I get excited just pulling everything together. Around here, I’ve learned that having the right brands can make a difference, so I often grab San Marzano tomatoes for that authentic Italian depth. If they’re not in stock, any quality canned tomatoes will do the trick.
- Ground Beef: The hearty base that gives this soup its meaty richness.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a flavorful foundation.
- Canned Tomatoes: For that classic lasagna sauce vibe.
- Tomato Paste: Adds concentrated depth to the broth.
- Beef Broth: Keeps everything savory and soul-warming.
- Lasagna Noodles: Broken into pieces for that signature pasta texture.
- Italian Seasoning: A must for authentic Italian flair.
- Ricotta and Mozzarella: Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
INGREDIENTS
Getting everything prepped for this recipe always feels like a little ritual to me. I’ll chop my onion and mince the garlic while the scent of fresh herbs fills the air. It’s those small moments that make cooking feel so grounding, don’t you think?
- – 1 lb ground beef
- – 1 medium onion, diced
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- – 2 tbsp tomato paste
- – 4 cups beef broth
- – 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- – 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- – 1/2 tsp salt
- – 1/4 tsp black pepper
- – 1 cup ricotta cheese
- – 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION
I still remember making this for my family during a snowstorm a few years back. Everyone huddled around the pot, waiting for that first steamy spoonful. It warmed us right up! I’m betting it’ll bring the same cozy vibes to your table too.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for another 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Dollop spoonfuls of the cheese mixture into the hot soup just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
Customizing Your Soup
One thing I adore about this dish is how adaptable it is. Sometimes I toss in extra veggies like spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost. If you’re feeding a crowd with different tastes, set up a little topping bar with extra cheese or red pepper flakes—everyone loves personalizing their bowl!
Storing and Reheating Tips
From experience, I’ve found that this recipe stores beautifully. Pop any leftovers into an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water since the noodles soak up liquid over time. A quick 2-3 minutes on the stove, and it’s just as comforting as day one.
Pairing Ideas for a Cozy Meal
What makes this meal extra special is pairing it with the right sides. I usually serve it with a hunk of garlic bread to sop up every last bit of broth. A simple green salad with a tangy dressing also cuts through the richness. On really cold nights, we’ve even enjoyed it with a glass of red wine—pure bliss!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely, and I’ve done it plenty of times when I’m short on energy! Just brown the beef and onions first, then toss everything except the noodles and cheese into your crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, add the pasta for the last 30 minutes, and stir in the cheesy goodness before serving this dish.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can swap out the lasagna noodles if needed. I’ve used bowties or penne when I’m out of the classic kind, and it works just fine. Just keep an eye on cooking times since smaller shapes might cook faster in this recipe. Adjust as needed for the perfect texture.
Is This Soup Freezer-Friendly?
For sure, though there’s a little trick to it. Freeze the broth and meat base without the noodles or cheese, as they can get mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the base, cook fresh pasta, and add the creamy topping to keep this cozy meal tasting fresh.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Ultimate Comfort One-Pot Lasagna Soup – Family Favorite to bring everyone together on a busy or chilly night. I’ve shared countless memories over this dish with my loved ones, and I’m so excited for you to create your own. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers every time.
Got a twist on this comfort classic or a story to share about making it? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear how it turns out in your kitchen. And if you’re hungry for more easy, hearty meals, stick around for other recipes that’ll warm your soul just as much!