One Pot Lasagna Soup is a comforting twist on the classic Italian lasagna you know and love, but in a warm, hearty soup form. It’s packed with ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and all the cheesy goodness like ricotta and mozzarella that make lasagna so satisfying. This soup feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day, with all those familiar flavors coming together in one easy pot.
I love making this soup when I want something delicious but don’t want to fuss with layers or long bake times. Everything cooks together in one pot, which makes cleanup super simple—always a win in my book. Plus, stirring in a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end is my secret trick for creamy richness that everyone asks about!
For serving, I like to sprinkle a little extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top and add some fresh basil if I have it on hand. It’s great with a side of garlic bread for soaking up every last drop. This soup always brings smiles and full bellies, and I find it’s perfect for sharing with family or friends who’ll appreciate a warm meal that’s both comforting and fun to eat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This adds rich flavor and protein. For a twist, try using Italian sausage for extra seasoning or ground turkey for a lighter option.
Lasagna noodles: Broken lasagna noodles work well here, but you can swap in wide egg noodles or even broken fettuccine if needed.
Ricotta cheese: It’s key for creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based ricotta or silken tofu for a similar texture.
Tomatoes and broth: Crushed tomatoes provide body and flavor, while broth keeps the soup hearty. Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
How Do You Prevent the Pasta from Getting Mushy in Soup?
Cooking noodles in soup can be tricky because of overcooking. Here are some tips to keep them perfect:
- Add the noodles only when the soup has boiled and reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Stir often to stop noodles from sticking together or to the bottom.
- Cook just until noodles are tender but still have a bite—usually 10-12 minutes.
- If you plan to store leftovers, cook noodles separately and add them when reheating to avoid mushiness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot – perfect for browning meat and simmering soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure broth, spices, and liquids accurately.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and herbs easily.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup into bowls neat and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicier, herby flavor to the soup.
- Add chopped spinach or kale at the end for a boost of greens and color.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter protein option without losing flavor.
- Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
One Pot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) broken lasagna noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, totaling about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and comforting meal ready on a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Onion:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until you smell its lovely aroma.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and water. Add dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), plus salt and pepper to your taste. Give everything a good stir and bring the soup to a boil.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring sometimes, until noodles are tender—this should take about 10 to 12 minutes.
5. Make It Creamy:
Turn off the heat once noodles are just right. Stir in the ricotta cheese, mixing it until the soup turns creamy and comforting.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle each serving with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious One Pot Lasagna Soup hot, with crusty or garlic bread for dipping and soaking up every last drop. Enjoy the cozy flavors of classic lasagna, all in a warm bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef or Sausage?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents extra moisture from making the soup watery.
Can I Make One Pot Lasagna Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup as directed, then cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep noodles from getting mushy, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it when reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
You can substitute cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try blending silken tofu with a little lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
