Name: Comforting One-Pot Lasagna Soup for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups marinara sauce; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil, for garnish

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🍲✨ Comforting One-Pot Lasagna Soup for Quick Weeknight Dinners

1. Introduction

If you’re craving the layered richness of traditional lasagna but need a quick, hassle-free dinner solution, then this lasagna soup recipe is your new best friend. Think aromatic tomato broth infused with herbs, gooey melted cheese, and tender pasta—all coming together in a single pot. It’s a warm hug on a busy weeknight, bringing the comforting flavors of lasagna to your spoon in under 40 minutes. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30-40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in a single pot.

Flavorful & Satisfying: Layers of Italian herbs, rich cheese, and savory broth satisfy cheesy lasagna cravings.
Customizable: Make it vegetarian or add your favorite proteins for extra heartiness.

3. Ingredient Notes

Choosing the right ingredients elevates this easy lasagna soup to restaurant quality. Use high-quality canned tomatoes, like San Marzano, for a rich, authentic flavor base. Fresh garlic and aromatic Italian herbs—basil, oregano, thyme—imbue the broth with a home-cooked depth. For cheese, a blend of mozzarella and ricotta adds that signature gooeyness, but feel free to experiment with Parmesan or even provolone for more intensity. For pasta, small shapes like ditalini or broken lasagna noodles work perfectly, soaking up the flavorful broth.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Creating this delicious Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes meal prep easier, allowing you to multitask. A sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even heating and effortless cleanup. For perfectly cooked pasta and broth, a reliable Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo can be added to your kitchen arsenal. These tools help streamline cooking and deliver consistent results every time.

5. How to Make Comforting One-Pot Lasagna Soup for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Prepare the Base

Start by heating a generous splash of olive oil in your favorite large pot. Sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant—your kitchen will fill with that irresistible aroma. Next, add crushed tomatoes and a splash of chicken or vegetable broth. Season with dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down into a rich, vibrant broth.

Add the Pasta & Proteins

Once the broth is simmering, stir in small pasta shapes like ditalini or broken lasagna noodles. Let it cook until al dente—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If using cooked ground beef or Italian sausage, stir it in now so it can absorb some of the tasty broth. The smell of the simmering soup combined with the bubbling pasta will have you eagerly awaiting the first spoonful.

Finish with Cheese & Greens

When the pasta is just right, stir in ricotta or cottage cheese for creaminess, along with shredded mozzarella. Cover the pot briefly to melt the cheese to gooey perfection. If you like, toss in fresh basil or spinach during the last few minutes for added freshness and nutrition. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete, hearty meal.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Stir Frequently: To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir occasionally during cooking. This ensures even absorption of broth.
Control the Heat: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer—boiling too aggressively can make the pasta mushy.

Cheese Timing: Add the cheese at the end to keep it gooey and prevent it from becoming grainy during reheating.
Flavor Boosts: Consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added depth and a hint of spice.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re vegetarian, skip the meat and load up on vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese options or nutritional yeast. Want more heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes. Craving extra protein? Incorporate cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or meatballs. The versatility of this weeknight dinner means you can adapt it to your preferences with ease.

8. Storage & Reheating

This lasagna soup stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to restore its rustic charm. Should you want to freeze leftovers, do so in individual portions—just remember, the cheese might slightly alter in texture after thawing, but it’ll still taste delicious.

9. FAQ

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the meat and load it with extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta until just al dente and add it towards the end of cooking. Remove the soup from heat once the pasta reaches the perfect texture.

Can I store leftovers? How long do they last?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Use a gluten-free pasta variety to make this soup friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.

10. Conclusion

This comforting one-pot lasagna soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and minimal cleanup make it a favorite in every household. Feel free to explore different add-ins or adaptations—it’s an easy, versatile weeknight dinner that tastes like a gourmet Italian restaurant in every spoonful. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with your loved ones and make mealtime memorable!

Comforting One-Pot Lasagna Soup for Quick Weeknight Dinners