Hearty Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops

If you love the comforting flavors of classic lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this Hearty Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops is your new go-to. Imagine all the layers of lasagna transformed into a rich, warm bowl of soup loaded with ground beef, tomatoes, herbs, and broken lasagna noodles, topped with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent without the fuss of assembling a traditional lasagna.

Reasons to Love Hearty Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops

• Comfort in a bowl: The familiar Italian flavors you crave, delivered in a simple, hearty soup.
• Quick and easy: Ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap cheeses to suit your taste.
• Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty protein base with rich flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers that unmistakable aromatic punch.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, tomatoey soup base.
• 4 cups beef broth: Boosts the savory flavor and creates the soup’s body.
• 8 sheets lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Provides the perfect pasta bite and mimics lasagna layers.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, classic Italian herb flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brightens the soup with subtle, sweet herbal notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Dolloped on top for creamy richness and a luscious texture.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the soup for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Fresh basil for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma to every bowl.

Cook’s Kit

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soup.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
• Chef’s knife and cutting board: To chop onion, garlic, and fresh basil.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Ladle and soup bowls: To serve your delicious Hearty Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops.

Hearty Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Broken Lasagna Noodles

Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them directly to the simmering soup. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Step 5: Stir in Mozzarella Cheese

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese so it melts into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy texture throughout.

Step 6: Serve with Ricotta Dollops and Fresh Basil

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and add generous dollops of ricotta cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh finish. The ricotta adds a luscious creaminess that complements the hearty broth perfectly.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of greens.
• Stir in roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness.
• Top with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter protein option.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Make sure to break the lasagna noodles into small pieces so they cook evenly and are easy to eat with a spoon.
• Don’t skip the ricotta dollops—they really elevate the soup and add a creamy contrast to the tomato broth.
• For a richer flavor, simmer the soup a little longer before adding noodles to deepen the tomato base.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth by simmering uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This soup is fantastic for meal prep as it reheats well and flavors deepen overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the noodles if needed and stir in fresh ricotta dollops for that creamy finish. You can also freeze the soup (without the ricotta) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Popular Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the soup will still deliver all the comforting lasagna flavors.

What’s the best cheese to use for the dollops?

Ricotta cheese is ideal because of its creamy, slightly sweet profile that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. You can experiment with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a different twist.

Can I use fresh lasagna noodles?

Yes, fresh lasagna noodles work great and cook faster. Just break them into smaller pieces and add them toward the end, cooking for 3-5 minutes until tender.

How spicy is this soup?

This version is mild, focusing on classic Italian herbs and cheese. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or sprinkle on top when serving.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Tomato Basil Penne With Turkey Sausage – Another comforting pasta dish with a twist.
• Baked Spaghetti And Meatballs – A hearty baked favorite perfect for family dinners.
• Ricotta Lemon Loaf – A light, citrusy bread featuring ricotta cheese, great for a sweet finish.

Final Bite

This Hearty Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops is a soul-warming, satisfying dish that brings all the best parts of lasagna into a cozy bowl. The rich tomato broth, tender noodles, savory beef, and creamy cheese come together effortlessly to make a meal that’s both comforting and quick enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup delivers big on flavor and ease. Serve it with a simple green salad or crusty bread, and you’ve got a winning dinner on the table in no time.

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