Introduction to One Pot Lasagna Soup
If you're a young professional juggling a busy schedule, you've probably dreamt of meals that are both delicious and efficient. Enter one pot meals—they're truly a game changer! Imagine coming home from a long day and whipping up a comforting dinner in no time, without dishes piling up in the sink. The magic of one pot lasagna soup lies in its simplicity; every ingredient cooks together in one pot, infusing the flavors and making meal prep a breeze.
Not only does this dish fit perfectly into hectic weeknights, but it’s also a versatile option for any season. Using canned tomatoes means you can enjoy that hearty lasagna flavor year-round, without the fuss of layering pasta and sauce. Plus, many of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up on a whim.
Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore. This one pot lasagna soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that allows you to unwind and enjoy your evening. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor a bowl of joy—because nothing warms the heart quite like a hot bowl of pasta soup! Check out the full recipe below to get started.
Ingredients for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Essential ingredients for a comforting soup
When you’re craving a warm, hearty meal but want to save time, this one pot lasagna soup is a game-changer! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
- Ground beef: Provides that classic meaty flavor we all love.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the backbone of the taste profile.
- Tomato paste and diced tomatoes: These essentials ensure a rich, tomatoey base.
- Chicken broth: It ties everything together, infusing the soup with savory depth.
- Lasagna noodles: Broken into pieces to cook right in the broth for that authentic lasagna experience.
- Cheese: Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan give it that melty, creamy finish.
- Dried oregano, salt, and black pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the dish.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to get creative with your one pot lasagna soup! For a twist, consider adding:
- Fresh basil for a pop of freshness.
- Ricotta cheese for a creamy texture on top.
- Vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Granulated sugar if you prefer a balance to the acidity of the tomatoes.
Using a combination of these ingredients allows you to tailor the soup to your taste preferences! Want to explore more ideas? Check out The Kitchn for additional recipe inspiration.
Step-by-step Preparation of One Pot Lasagna Soup
Creating a warm and comforting one pot lasagna soup is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and you'll be enjoying a delightful bowl of soup in no time.
Sautéing the beef and onions
Start by heating a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in ½ pound of ground beef along with ½ cup of chopped onions and a few pinches of salt. Cook the mixture until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step sets the flavor foundation for your soup. Don't forget to drain off any excess grease; you want the soup rich but not too oily!
Adding garlic and tomato paste
Once your beef and onions are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to elevate those flavors. Stir in one minced garlic clove and cook for about a minute until fragrant—this is where the magic starts to happen. Then, add in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing it well with the beef and onion. This step provides a deep, robust base for your one pot lasagna soup and enhances the overall richness.
Mixing in the tomatoes and broth
Now, it’s time to bring in the liquids! Stir in one can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes with their juices, along with 2-3 cups of chicken stock or broth, depending on the consistency you prefer. Don’t forget to sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Bring this flavorful mixture to a boil, letting those tastes meld beautifully.
Cooking the noodles in the soup
Once boiling, it's time to introduce the main pasta star! Add 4 uncooked and broken lasagna noodles to the soup, stirring occasionally. Cook them until they are al dente—this should take about 10-12 minutes. If you find the noodles are soaking up too much liquid, feel free to add that extra cup of broth you reserved. The goal is to ensure a balanced, hearty soup.
Stirring in the cheeses and basil
After the noodles reach the perfect texture, reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil. The cheese will melt into the soup, making it creamy and flavorful. Take a moment to taste, and adjust with additional salt or a sprinkle of sugar if the tomatoes feel overly acidic.
Serving with ricotta on top
For the final touch, serve each bowl with a generous tablespoon of full-fat ricotta cheese on top. This creamy addition really ties the whole dish together, giving that authentic lasagna experience!
Now you've prepared a delightful bowl of one pot lasagna soup, perfect for any busy night or cozy weekend dinner. Enjoy!
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out Bon Appétit for more savory soups and hearty meals.
Variations on One Pot Lasagna Soup
Vegetarian Lasagna Soup Option
If you're looking for a hearty yet meat-free meal, try a vegetarian version of your one pot lasagna soup! Simply omit the ground beef and swap out the chicken broth for vegetable stock. Sauté a mix of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms and carrots to create a robust flavor base. Add in some frozen spinach toward the end for a nutritional boost — it’s a delightful way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of lasagna without the meat!
Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Adaptations
Short on time? Both the slow cooker and the Instant Pot offer fantastic options for a hands-free approach. For the slow cooker, brown the beef and combine all ingredients, letting it simmer for hours. In the Instant Pot, you can whip together your one pot lasagna soup in just 6 minutes once it’s under pressure! Trust me, either method gives you a delicious meal with minimal fuss. Dive into these alternate methods, and savor every bite!
Cooking Tips and Notes for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Importance of seasoning to taste
When it comes to creating a delicious one pot lasagna soup, seasoning is key. As you prepare the dish, don't hesitate to taste and adjust the flavors as you go. Each ingredient contributes its unique profile, so adding a pinch of salt or a dash of black pepper can elevate the entire dish. Remember, what might be just right for you may need a little tweaking for someone else. A small spoonful of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully, ensuring a comforting, rich flavor.
Flavors that complement lasagna soup
In addition to the classic ingredients, consider adding flavor boosters to your soup. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley accentuate the lasagna experience, while a hint of red pepper flakes can add an enjoyable kick. For a savory twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach. These additions not only enhance taste but also pack in extra nutrients. For more about flavor combinations, you can check out this guide on herbs and spices.
Serving Suggestions for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Best pairings for a complete meal
To elevate your one pot lasagna soup experience, consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette. The crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty flavors of the soup. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread can also enhance the dining experience, allowing you to soak up every last drop. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet or tiramisu can round off the meal beautifully.
Creative serving ideas
Serve your one pot lasagna soup in rustic bowls for a cozy feel, and don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan on top for that gourmet touch. You could even arrange a fun soup bar with toppings like fresh basil, crushed red pepper, and extra ricotta. This encourages guests to personalize their bowls, making the meal interactive and engaging—perfect for entertaining! For more inspiration on creative meal presentations, check out Food52's Serving Ideas.
Time Breakdown for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Preparation Time
Getting started with this comforting one pot lasagna soup takes just 15 minutes! Chop your veggies and gather your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Cooking Time
After prepping, the cooking will take around 30 minutes. During this time, flavors meld beautifully while the noodles cook right in the broth—how convenient!
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy! Perfect for a busy weeknight when you're craving something cozy yet easy.
For more tips on crafting quick meals, check out sources like EatingWell and Bon Appétit for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Estimated Calories per Serving
Each serving of this one pot lasagna soup contains approximately 480 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced meal option.
Key Nutritional Highlights
This soup not only satisfies your pasta cravings but also packs protein from the ground beef and calcium from the cheeses. Plus, it’s rich in vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs. Overall, it's a delicious and nutritious choice for any weeknight dinner!
For more information on the importance of balanced meals, you can check out Healthline or WebMD. Feel free to experiment with ingredients to make this dish your own while keeping its nutritious profile!
FAQs about One Pot Lasagna Soup
Can I make One Pot Lasagna Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! One Pot Lasagna Soup is a fantastic make-ahead option. Simply prepare the soup and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple! Portion out any uneaten soup into airtight containers. The one pot lasagna soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you choose to freeze it, consider leaving the toppings (like ricotta) out to add fresh when serving later.
What can I substitute if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
If you're out of lasagna noodles, don’t worry! Substitutes like broken spaghetti, penne, or even zucchini noodles work well. Just adjust the cooking time, as different shapes absorb liquid at varied rates. For more creative ideas, check out this guide on pasta substitutions.
Conclusion on One Pot Lasagna Soup
One Pot Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it's a meal that brings the family together. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients – make it your own! Enjoy this delicious soup anytime with ease.
One Pot Lasagna Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 0.5 pound ground beef 8 ounces
- 0.5 cup chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices 14.5 ounce
- 2-3 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt preferably kosher
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 pieces uncooked lasagna noodles regular or oven ready, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.25 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar optional
- 0.25 cup full-fat ricotta cheese
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or large pot until hot. Add the beef, onion, and a few pinches of salt. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it into pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste, tomatoes with juices, 2 cups broth/stock, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the noodles. Cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the noodles absorbed too much of the liquid, add the remaining 1 cup broth.
- Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil until cheese has melted. Taste and adjust the seasonings. If the tomatoes are too acidic, you may need to add some sugar.
- To serve, top each bowl with 1 tablespoon ricotta.
Leave a Reply