Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup is like a big warm hug in a bowl. It’s packed with all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna—think hearty ground beef, tender noodles, tomato sauce, and that rich, creamy cheese goodness you love. The soup brings everything together into one simple, cozy meal that’s perfect for chilly days or when you just want something satisfying without too much fuss.
I love making this soup because it’s quick and doesn’t require layering or baking like a regular lasagna. Instead, you get all those classic tastes in a creamy, soupy form that’s easy to stir and serve. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I usually add a little extra cheese on top because, honestly, you can never have too much cheesy goodness!
When I serve this soup, I like to pair it with some crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. It’s one of those recipes that everyone at the table loves, especially kids, because it tastes like lasagna but is so much easier to eat. This soup always reminds me of cozy family dinners and the joy of sharing homemade food without all the hassle, which makes it one of my go-to comfort meals.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef or Italian sausage: Both add a rich flavor. Sausage gives a spicier kick. For a lighter option, use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
Lasagna noodles: Breaking boiled noodles into pieces works well, or use any short pasta like penne or farfalle.
Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy texture. Cottage cheese is a good substitute if ricotta isn’t available. For dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: This makes the soup creamy. Use milk for a lighter version, but it won’t be as rich. Coconut milk can work for a dairy-free twist.
Tomato paste and diced tomatoes: Tomato paste deepens flavor and gives body. Using crushed tomatoes is a fine alternative.
How Do I Cook the Lasagna Noodles Without Making Them Mushy?
Lasagna noodles can easily become mushy in soup if overcooked. Here are my tips:
- Break noodles into bite-sized pieces before adding to soup.
- Add them only once the soup is simmering to avoid overcooking.
- Cook noodles until just al dente—usually 10-12 minutes—stirring occasionally to keep them separate.
- If making ahead, cook noodles separately or add just before serving.
These steps help noodles stay tender but with a little bite, keeping the soup’s texture satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – I recommend it because it lets you cook everything in one pot, saving time and dishes.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring the ingredients and breaking up the meat.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep everything accurate and easy.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions and garlic.
- Optional: Separate pot for cooking noodles – helps prevent overcooking if you prefer to cook noodles separately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or veggie version.
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for more spice and flavor.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
- Top with crushed red pepper flakes or shredded Parmesan for more flavor and a little heat.
Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick way to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna in a creamy, comforting soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the aroma.
2. Add Tomato Paste and Broth:
Mix in the tomato paste and cook it with the meat mixture for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well.
3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir occasionally to stop the noodles from sticking together. Let the noodles cook for about 10-12 minutes until they’re tender but still have a little bite (al dente).
4. Make It Creamy:
Turn the heat to low. Stir in the ricotta cheese, heavy cream (or half-and-half), and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix gently until the cheese melts and the soup turns creamy and delicious.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef or Sausage for This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the meat in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and cook safely.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding noodles and dairy. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, then heat and add noodles and cheese just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid curdling the cream and cheese.
Can I Substitute Other Pasta for Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, feel free to use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time so the pasta stays al dente.
