A cozy, spoonable version of classic lasagna, this one-pot soup is rich in tomato flavor, savory meat, and creamy cheeses, perfect for busy weeknights.
Servings 6servings
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine Italian
Ingredients
Meat and Base
1lbground beef or Italian sausageadds savory protein and depth
1tbspolive oilhelps brown the meat and carries flavor
1mediumyellow onion, dicedprovides sweet, aromatic base flavor
3clovesgarlic, mincedboosts flavor and aroma
2tbsptomato pasteconcentrates tomato flavor and adds richness
128 oz cancrushed tomatoesthe tomato backbone that makes it 'lasagna'
4cupsbeef or chicken brothcreates the soup base and hydrates the pasta
Pasta and Seasonings
8ozbroken lasagna noodlesgives the lasagna texture in soup form
1tspdried oreganoclassic Italian herb for savory notes
1/4cupgrated Parmesan cheeseumami and nutty finish
Method
Preparation
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat in your large pot or Dutch oven.
Add 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink (about 6–8 minutes). Season lightly with salt and pepper. Please drain excess fat if the meat is very greasy.
Push the meat to one side, add the diced onion, and cook until softened (about 4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Building the Soup
Pour in the 28 oz crushed tomatoes and 4 cups broth. Stir to combine. Add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), and 1 tsp sugar (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Increase heat to bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Add the broken lasagna noodles (about 8 oz) to the simmering soup, stir to submerge, and cook uncovered until the pasta is tender (usually 10–12 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finishing Touches
Once the noodles are cooked, reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. For creaminess, either dollop spoonfuls of ricotta into bowls when serving or stir 1 cup ricotta into the pot for a silkier texture.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each bowl and cover for a minute to melt, or stir in half and reserve half for topping.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley, and extra Parmesan if desired.
Don’t overcook the pasta; check the noodles a minute or two early. Balance acidity with a teaspoon of sugar or a tablespoon of butter. Stir some mozzarella into the soup for melty creaminess and reserve extra to sprinkle on top. The flavors deepen if made a day ahead; reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.