Hearty Lasagna Soup

An Easy and Delicious Twist on a Classic: Hearty Lasagna Soup

Lasagna is a beloved classic in many households, cherished for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. However, preparing this layered pasta dish can be a daunting task, especially when you’re short on time during a busy week. The solution? Lasagna Soup! This delightful one-pot wonder captures all the savory essence of traditional lasagna without the hassle, bringing you a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hearty Lasagna Soup is a game changer for several reasons:

• Flavorful and Quick: Enjoy all the delicious flavors of lasagna in a fraction of the time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Serving bowls

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds Italian sausage
• 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes
• 10 oz. lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces
• 8 oz. fresh kale, optional
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup white onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the sausage.
2. Once the sausage is cooked through, add the onion and cook until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Season generously with salt and pepper, and add the basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste until incorporated, then pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, water, and bay leaves.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes.
6. Add the lasagna noodles and kale (if using) and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente.
7. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta and parmesan cheese until smooth.
8. Transfer the soup to serving bowls and serve with a large spoonful of the ricotta mixture.

Tips for Success

• For an extra depth of flavor, try browning the sausage until it’s slightly crispy.
• Make sure to break the lasagna noodles into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Additional Tips or Variations

• You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
• Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure that your chicken stock is gluten-free.

What can I use instead of kale? Spinach or Swiss chard are great alternatives that will work well in this soup.

Conclusion

Hearty Lasagna Soup is a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s perfect for cozy nights in and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you! Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. Enjoy!