Spicy but Comforting Lasagna Soup for Chilly Nights
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up on a cold evening with this hearty and flavorful Lasagna Soup. Packed with all the classic ingredients of traditional lasagna, including rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and layers of gooey mozzarella, this soup features a delightful kick of spice that will awaken your taste buds. It's an easy one-pot meal that combines comfort and heat, perfect for cozy nights in!
This Lasagna Soup is not just a meal, but a source of warmth on chilly nights. With each spoonful, it transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of spices and simmering tomatoes.
A Hearty Twist on a Classic Dish
Lasagna is a beloved Italian comfort food, traditionally enjoyed in layered form with rich sauces and melted cheeses. This Lasagna Soup takes all the classic elements of lasagna and transforms them into a delightful and hearty soup that warms the soul. The combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses creates a comforting experience that feels both familiar and innovative, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings.
One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you prefer adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or opting for a different type of cheese, such as Parmesan or provolone, this recipe allows for ample creativity while still keeping the essence of classic lasagna.
Quick and Easy One-Pot Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook a nutritious meal can be challenging. This Spicy but Comforting Lasagna Soup not only delivers on flavor, but it also simplifies the cooking process. Being a one-pot dish, it minimizes clean-up time, allowing you to spend more moments enjoying your meal with family or friends. Less time in the kitchen means more time cozied up on the couch with your loved ones on those cold nights.
The straightforward cooking steps ensure that even novice cooks can whip up this dish with ease. In just under 30 minutes, you can go from prep to serving a delightful meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. This soup truly combines simplicity and comfort, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Healthier Comfort Food Option
Often, comfort food gets a bad rap for being unhealthy or overly indulgent. However, this lasagna soup provides an opportunity to indulge while still keeping health in mind. By incorporating lean ground beef and plenty of tomatoes, you create a dish rich in protein and vitamins. Additionally, using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella can lower the fat content without sacrificing richness and flavor.
Another great aspect of this soup is the ability to boost its nutritional value. Adding in fresh veggies like kale, zucchini, or even a handful of mixed greens can enhance both the flavor and nutritional profile. This way, you can enjoy a bowl of comfort without the guilt, making it a win-win for hearty meals during chilly nights.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Note: Feel free to modify the quantities or ingredients to suit your taste preferences!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Stir in Noodles
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat and simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Serve with Cheese
Serve hot, topping each bowl with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of spicy lasagna soup!
Storing and Reheating Lasagna Soup
One of the benefits of this lasagna soup is its storability. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you'd like to save it for a longer period, consider freezing it in portions. Just ensure the soup has cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags, and it can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, as the noodles will absorb liquid during storage. This allows you to enjoy this comforting dish with minimal effort, even days after it's been made.
Serving Suggestions
For an elevated experience, consider serving this lasagna soup with a side of garlic bread or a light salad. Garlic bread adds a delightful crunch, perfect for dipping into the rich soup, while a fresh salad adds balance and a burst of color to the meal. A simple arugula and cherry tomato salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette pairs particularly well.
You can also set out extra toppings such as grated Parmesan or chili flakes for guests to customize their bowls further. This encourages engagement, as everyone can create the perfect bowl of lasagna soup suited to their taste, making it a fun and interactive dinner experience!
Pairing Drinks with Lasagna Soup
When it comes to pairing drinks with your lasagna soup, a robust red wine like Chianti or a medium-bodied Merlot complements the flavors beautifully. The earthy notes of the wine enhance the savory elements of the dish, elevating your dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea to cleanse the palate.
For something cozy, a warm herbal tea can also be a delightful choice, especially if you're serving this soup on a particularly chilly night. The warmth of the tea alongside the soup will ensure a completely comforting meal, making for an enjoyable evening in.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth.
Spicy but Comforting Lasagna Soup for Chilly Nights
Warm up on a cold evening with this hearty and flavorful Lasagna Soup. Packed with all the classic ingredients of traditional lasagna, including rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and layers of gooey mozzarella, this soup features a delightful kick of spice that will awaken your taste buds. It's an easy one-pot meal that combines comfort and heat, perfect for cozy nights in!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat and simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Serve hot, topping each bowl with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g