If you’ve ever wished for a cozy, comforting meal that combines all the best parts of classic Italian lasagna but in a quicker, slurpable form, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl—rich, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavors that your whole family will adore. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it on repeat for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something that feels like a special treat without all the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cozy Comfort Food: All the lasagna flavors you love, but in a quicker, easy-to-make soup form.
- Cheesy Goodness: The mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan brings creamy, melty magic to every bite.
- Family Friendly: My kids go crazy for it, and it’s so simple to adjust for picky eaters or veggie lovers.
- Versatile & Easy: You can make it in under an hour and customize ingredients to your liking with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe come together to create layers of flavor without needing hours in the kitchen. You’ll find the blend of ground meats, herbs, and cheeses really makes this a standout. Plus, I always recommend using good-quality marinara sauce because it sets the foundation for the whole soup.
- Lean ground beef: Provides hearty flavor without too much grease.
- Ground Italian sausage: Adds spice and depth — make sure to pick a quality sausage for best taste.
- Yellow onion: Gives a sweet base flavor once sautéed.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic gives that classic Italian aroma and punch.
- Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that boosts the soup’s richness.
- Marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for a personal touch.
- Red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley: Brightens the flavor and adds a subtle herbal note.
- Dried oregano & basil: The essential Italian herbs that bring authentic flavor.
- Low sodium chicken broth: The soup base that ties everything together—low sodium lets you control the salt.
- Lasagna noodles: Broken into smaller pieces so they cook evenly in the soup.
- Fresh spinach leaves (optional): I love adding greens here for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, this is the heart of the signature cheese topping.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For melty, gooey texture on top of each serving.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, tangy kick to finish things off.
- Fresh basil: For garnishing and that fresh herby aroma everyone loves.
Variations
One of the things I love most about this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have or your dietary needs. I’ve tried several variations over the years, and it’s so fun to make it your own.
- Vegetarian Version: I swap out the meat for extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash; it’s just as hearty and satisfying without the meat.
- Vegan Twist: Use cashew ricotta instead of dairy and double the veggies—you won’t miss the cheese one bit.
- Pasta Flexibility: Broken lasagna noodles are classic, but you can sub any pasta shape you have—penne or rotini work great too!
- Slow Cooker Friendly: I like to brown the meat and sauté my onions ahead, then let everything simmer low and slow in the crockpot for 4-6 hours. So easy for busy days.
How to Make Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat for Deep Flavor
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef and Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper as you cook. Brown the meat until it’s nicely caramelized—this step is key because those browned bits add tons of flavor to your soup. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the meat aside for now. I like to do this part first so the flavors start building early.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic to Build Your Base
In the same pot, add olive oil and toss in the diced onion. Let it cook gently for about 5 minutes until it softens and turns golden, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t burn. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two—you want it fragrant but not browned. This combo is classic Italian and will make your soup taste so authentic.
Step 3: Mix in Tomato Paste, Sauces, and Broth
Once your onions and garlic have softened, stir in the tomato paste—cooking it for a minute helps develop a richer tomato flavor. Then pour in the marinara sauce, add your herbs (parsley, oregano, basil), red pepper flakes, and pour in the chicken broth. Return the browned meat to the pot and stir everything together. Bring this mixture to a boil before adding your broken lasagna noodles.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Add Spinach
Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles and reduce the heat to medium-low. Keep the soup gently simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking, until they’re tender—usually about 10-12 minutes. If you want some extra greens, stir in fresh spinach during the last couple of minutes just until wilted. It adds a lovely color and extra nutrition without overpowering the flavors.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesy Topping
While the soup is finishing up, mix together the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses in a small bowl. This cheesy trio is what makes this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe feel truly indulgent. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls and dollop a generous scoop of this cheese mixture on top. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese just perfectly!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing each bowl with fresh basil leaves. This adds a pop of color and that vibrant herbaceous note we all love. Serve it right away while it’s hot, with maybe some crusty bread for dipping—because why not soak up every last bit of that delicious soup?
Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Broken lasagna noodles cook faster than you’d think, so keep an eye on them to avoid mushy pasta in your soup.
- Use Quality Cheeses: Fresh mozzarella and real ricotta make all the difference; pre-shredded cheese often has additives that affect melt and texture.
- Brown the Meat Well: That first step of properly browning the beef and sausage ensures deep, savory flavor that’s the foundation of your soup.
- Add Spinach Last: Fresh spinach wilts quickly and adds freshness—adding it at the end preserves its bright green color and nutrients.
How to Serve Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
I love fresh basil for garnishing because it’s fragrant and adds a beautiful green pop. Sometimes I sprinkle extra parmesan on top for those who love an intensified cheesy bite, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little welcomed heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
Crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs perfectly with this soup. My family also enjoys a little Caesar salad on the side when we want something light yet crisp to balance the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist when serving to guests, I like to ladle the soup into small oven-safe bowls, add the cheese dollop, then broil briefly to get a bubbly cheesy crust on top—like individual mini lasagnas in soup form. It always impresses and feels so special for occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To keep the noodles from getting soggy, I sometimes store the soup and noodles separately, reheating them together later. This helps maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
I’ve frozen this soup many times without the cheese topping. Just cool the soup completely, then place in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. When thawed, I reheat gently on the stove and add freshly cooked noodles before serving to keep it tasting fresh.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. Add the cheese dollop just before serving for that creamy melted finish we all crave.
FAQs
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Can I make Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the ground beef and Italian sausage, and add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash to keep it hearty and flavorful. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.
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What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. To keep the noodles from getting mushy, you can store them separately and add fresh noodles when reheating. Always add your cheese topping fresh before serving.
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Can I freeze this lasagna soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup but exclude the cheese topping. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat slowly and add freshly cooked noodles for best texture.
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Can I use different pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
Definitely! Broken lasagna noodles are traditional here, but any pasta like penne, rotini, or even broken spaghetti will work. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe transforms the flavors of a classic comfort dish into a cozy, easy-to-make meal that feels special every time. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how much my family enjoyed it. It’s become one of my go-to recipes for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or anytime I want that warm, comforting taste without the complicated steps. I can’t wait for you to try it—you’ll find that it hits all the right notes and might just become your new favorite too.
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Lasagna Soup with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Lasagna Soup is a comforting and hearty twist on the classic Italian lasagna, served in a warm, flavorful soup form. This recipe combines browned ground beef and Italian sausage with a rich marinara broth, broken lasagna noodles, and fresh spinach, topped with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup is easy to make, versatile, and can be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (optional)
Broth and Sauce
- 1 recipe homemade marinara sauce or 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 7 cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
Pasta
- 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheeses
- 10 ounces ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper during cooking. Drain excess grease and remove the cooked meat from the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Add Sauces and Seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, and the broth. Mix well to combine. Return the browned meat back into the pot.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Add fresh spinach leaves during the last few minutes if using.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Mix until well blended.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy.
Notes
- Store lasagna soup covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Make ahead: Complete the recipe to step 4 without adding noodles. Refrigerate soup. When ready to serve, bring to a boil, add noodles, cook until tender, and top with cheese.
- Freezing: Freeze soup without cheese in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat slowly on stovetop. For best results, cook noodles fresh when reheating.
- Vegetarian option: Omit meat and add extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and yellow squash during cooking.
- Vegan option: Omit meat and cheese; substitute cheese with homemade cashew ricotta and add extra vegetables.
- Any type of pasta can substitute the broken lasagna noodles.
- Slow cooker method: After browning meat and sautéing onions and garlic, combine all ingredients except noodles in slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add noodles about 30 minutes before serving. Add spinach at the end.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 55mg