Name: Cozy Up with Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (Choose 80/20 for best flavor); 1 lb Italian Sausage (Use mild or spicy according to preference); 28 oz Diced Tomatoes (Canned in juice); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Intensifies flavor); 1 medium Onion (Fresh for maximum flavor); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh is preferable); 8 oz Lasagna Noodles (Broken up); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Homemade or store-bought); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Stir in off heat); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Add before serving); 1 tbsp Dried Basil; 1 tbsp Oregano; 1 tbsp Parsley; 1 leaf Bay Leaf (Remove before serving)

As I stirred my pot, the fragrant aroma of simmering garlic and herbs filled the kitchen, instantly whisking me away to an Italian trattoria. This Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta brings the comfort of classic lasagna into a cozy bowl, perfect for any weeknight. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this hearty meal, combining ground beef and Italian sausage with rich tomatoes and creamy broth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s not only quick to prepare but also a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, making it an ideal solution for those tired of fast food. Plus, it’s a satisfying way to enjoy your favorite comfort food without the fuss of layering noodles. What could be better than diving into a warm, cheesy bowl of goodness at the end of a long day? Are you ready to give your dinner routine a delicious makeover?

Why Is This Lasagna Soup a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Comforting flavors abound as classic lasagna tastes are transformed into a hearty soup that warms the soul.

Crowd-pleaser appeal: Family and friends will rave about this dish, making it a great option for gatherings—pair it with crusty garlic bread for an unforgettable meal!

Versatile enough to adapt: Swap the ground beef for turkey or toss in some spinach for extra nutrition, just as you might in a wonderful Chicken Salad Discover.

Ultimately, this Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta embodies comfort and authenticity, serving up a delightful Italian experience without the hassle of traditional lasagna preparations!

Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Ingredients

For the Meat
• Ground Beef – Offers rich flavor and protein; choose 80/20 for the best balance of taste and grease.
• Italian Sausage – Adds depth; go for mild if you prefer less heat or spicy for a flavor kick.

For the Base
• Diced Tomatoes – Essential for acidity and flavor; canned versions in juice work best for the soup.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato essence; thickens the soup beautifully.
• Onion – Infuses sweetness; always opt for fresh for maximum flavor.
• Garlic – Elevates aroma and taste; fresh cloves give the best results.

For the Soup
• Lasagna Noodles – The star that brings it all together; break them up and add towards the end to avoid mushiness.
• Chicken Stock – Provides the essential broth base; homemade is great but store-bought works well too.
• Heavy Cream – Unites the soup with creamy goodness; stir in once off the heat to prevent curdling.

For Topping
• Mozzarella Cheese – The cheese that adds that glorious gooeyness; add just before serving for maximum meltiness.

For the Flavors
• Dried Basil, Oregano, and Parsley – Must-haves for that authentic Italian flavor; don’t skimp on this!
• Bay Leaf – Infuses a subtle depth; remember to remove it before serving.

This Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta offers rich and comforting flavors that will surely hit the spot!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat, adding ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon until browned and no longer pink. The meat should be nicely caramelized, emitting a delicious aroma—do not drain the grease, as it adds extra flavor to your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes. Continue cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant, soaking up the flavors of the meat. This step enhances the aromatic base of your soup, ensuring each bowl is as flavorful as possible.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato and Herbs
Stir in the tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the tomato paste is heated through and well combined with the meat and aromatics. This adds a rich depth to your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta, giving it that classic Italian flavor.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the chicken stock. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Carefully add broken lasagna noodles to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on the consistency, adjusting with more broth if needed to keep your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta hearty yet comforting.

Step 6: Mix in Cream and Cheese
Once the noodles are cooked, lower the heat. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and mozzarella cheese, allowing them to melt smoothly into the soup. This should take about 2-3 minutes off the heat to maintain a rich and creamy texture, ensuring your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta is perfectly luscious.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hearty soup into warm bowls, garnishing each serving with extra mozzarella for that delightful gooeyness. Serve immediately while hot, and watch as everyone enjoys the creamy, savory goodness of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta, perfect for cozy family dinners!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the heavy cream and cheese in a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. This prevents separation when reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding extra chicken stock if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Serving: Always stir in the cream and cheese just before serving to maintain the creamy texture of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the base of the soup (without the cream and noodles) up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the ground beef, sausage, and all other ingredients, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate or freeze for longer storage (up to 3 months). Before serving, reheat on the stove and add the noodles, cooking until tender; then incorporate the heavy cream and mozzarella, ensuring a fresh, creamy finish. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort when you’re ready to serve!

What to Serve with Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Complete your cozy meal with delightful accompaniments that enhance the rich flavors of your soup.

Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth, its crunchy texture adds a wonderful contrast to the soup.
Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the tangy dressing complement the warm, hearty soup, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy, these make excellent little vehicles for scooping up bites, ensuring no drop of goodness is left behind.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, their sweetness pairs nicely, adding freshness and a slight crunch to your meal.
Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites bring a delightful cheesy flavor that echoes the rich mozzarella in the soup. They make for a tasty snack on the side.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine brings out the Italian flavors, enhancing your overall dining experience, making it even more luxurious.

Enjoy these pairings for a memorable feast that wraps you in warmth and comfort!

Expert Tips for Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta

Noodle Timing: Add lasagna noodles during the last 10-12 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. This timing is key for perfect texture.
Flavorful Browning: Ensure your ground beef and Italian sausage are well-browned at the start. This step enhances the overall flavor of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta.
Creamy Consistency: Stir in the heavy cream off the heat to avoid curdling. This helps maintain a smooth and creamy texture throughout the soup.
Remove Bay Leaf: Don’t forget to take out the bay leaf before serving. This small step prevents unpleasing bites and keeps your soup enjoyable.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate the taste of your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta significantly.

Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Variations

Feel free to make this Easy Lasagna Soup your own by adding a personal touch or substituting ingredients for a delightful twist!

Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey to create a leaner version that’s just as tasty.
Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based sausage and chickpeas instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian option.
Creamy Alternative: If you want a lighter soup, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even skip it entirely for a brothier texture.
Extra Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a burst of color.
Cheesy Surprise: Stir in ricotta or cottage cheese before serving for that classic lasagna experience without the layers.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat in your soup.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to elevate the aroma and flavor profile—just like in my Homemade Butter Chicken.
Pasta Variety: Instead of lasagna noodles, use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or shells, for a fun twist on the original recipe.

The beauty of this recipe is that the options are endless; let your kitchen creativity shine! Whether you choose to indulge or keep it light, your Easy Lasagna Soup will become a comforting favorite time and time again.

Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use?
For the best flavor without excessive grease, I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 or 85/15. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey, but be sure to add a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture and flavor.

How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store your Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I often find that the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!

Can I freeze this lasagna soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, avoid adding heavy cream and cheese. Instead, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into a vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding some chicken stock if needed for the right consistency.

What if I added the lasagna noodles too early and they turned mushy?
If your noodles are mushy, there’s still hope! Try adding some fresh cooked noodles to the soup when you reheat it. This can restore some texture. For future batches, remember to add the noodles only during the last 10-12 minutes of cooking to keep them perfectly al dente.

Is this soup suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, this Easy Lasagna Soup No Ricotta contains dairy from the heavy cream and mozzarella. For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream, avoiding the cheese topping altogether. Always check labels to ensure no hidden dairy ingredients based on your dietary needs.