This One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with pasta, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness that makes every spoonful extra special.
Cooking it all in one pot means less mess, which is a big win! I like to top mine with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra cheese—because, let’s be real, more cheese is always better! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This provides great flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Cheeses: Ricotta gives creaminess, while mozzarella melts beautifully. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cheese or a vegan cream cheese. For a tangy twist, cream cheese can also be a fun alternative!
Pasta: Bow tie (farfalle) pasta is fun and holds the soup well, but you can use any short pasta like penne or shells. Just make sure to check cooking times as they may vary.
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but chicken broth or vegetable broth suits this dish too. You can also use store-bought stock for convenience or homemade for a personal touch!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Cheesy?
To achieve the perfect creamy and cheesy consistency, follow these steps:
- Stir in the cheeses at a low heat. High heat can cause the cheese to clump instead of melt evenly.
- Mix in the ricotta last. This keeps it from breaking up too much, allowing it to add that creamy texture.
- Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings with more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavors.
One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 8 ounces uncooked bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy One-Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break it up with a spoon as it cooks for even browning!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper, then cook for another 1-2 minutes until it smells delicious!
3. Add the Liquid:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and water. Give it a good stir to combine, and then bring this mixture to a boil. This is where the magic begins!
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once it’s boiling, add the uncooked bow tie pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until the pasta is tender—about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together.
5. Stir in the Cheeses:
When the pasta is cooked just right, lower the heat and add in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it becomes creamy and cheesy—just the way you want your soup!
6. Final Tasting and Adjusting:
Now, take a moment to taste your soup! Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your creation, so make it perfect for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top. This comforting bowl of cheesy goodness is ready to be enjoyed!
Dig in and enjoy this hearty, one-pot wonder that tastes just like your favorite lasagna without any of the fuss!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef or Italian sausage is traditional for this recipe, feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’d like a lighter or vegetarian option!
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cream cheese is a great alternative that will still give a creamy texture. You can also use cottage cheese blended until smooth for a similar effect!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick after refrigeration.
Can I Double or Halve This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe! If doubling, ensure you have a large enough pot, and keep an eye on cooking times, as larger quantities may need a few extra minutes. For halving, simply reduce all ingredients by half and enjoy a smaller batch!
