This lasagna soup is a little rebellion against the traditional layered dish. I love how it captures all those cheesy, tomatoey, meaty flavors in a single spoonful. It’s a chilly evening’s best friend, especially when you want comfort without the fuss of baking a big lasagna.
Why I keep coming back to this soup
It’s a bowl that comes together fast but feels like a warm hug. The flavors are familiar but layered—each spoonful reminds me of family dinners, lazy weekends, and cold nights. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable; I can toss in spinach, swap in different cheeses, or amp up the heat. It’s my go-to when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Breaking down the ingredients that make this soup special
- Italian sausage: I use spicy for a kick, but mild works too. Swap out for ground turkey for a leaner version.: Adds depth and a savory, slightly smoky flavor that laces through every spoonful.
- Crushed tomatoes: I prefer San Marzano for their sweetness, but any good-quality canned tomatoes will do.: Provides a rich, tangy base that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.
- Lasagna noodles: Broken into pieces, they soak up the broth, creating that familiar pasta texture.: Use regular or gluten-free; just break them up into bite-sized bits.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan: Melts into gooey layers, adding stringy comfort and sharp saltiness.: Freshly grated cheese makes a big difference—go for quality.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Brightens the whole bowl with a lemon-bright, herbal finish.: Add just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Olive oil: Use a good extra virgin for flavor and to prevent sticking.: A splash at the start helps build a flavorful base.
Tools and equipment you’ll need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: For simmering the soup evenly and avoiding scorching.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and breaking apart the sausage.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To keep ingredients balanced.
- Ladle: For serving the soup hot and portioned.
Step-by-step to a bowl of comforting, cheesy goodness
Step 1: Gather all ingredients and tools before starting to keep things smooth.
Step 2: Heat a large pot over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil.
Step 3: Cook the sausage until browned, about 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 4: Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Stir in broken lasagna noodles, cooking until al dente, about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, letting the cheese melt into the soup.
Step 8: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Cooking checkpoints to keep your soup perfect
- Meat should be browned and cooked through, not grey or soggy.
- Noodles should be just tender, not mushy or raw.
- Cheese should be melted and bubbly, not clumped or burnt.
- Soup should be bubbling gently, not boiling over or simmering dull.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Letting the noodles overcook and turn to mush.? Add more broth if the soup gets too thick and sticky.
- Adding cheese too early, causing clumping.? Remove the soup from heat earlier if cheese begins to burn.
- Using too much oil, making the soup greasy.? Turn down the heat if bubbling too aggressively to prevent splatters.
- Under-seasoning, which can make the soup bland.? Stir frequently to avoid sticking at the bottom, especially after adding noodles.

Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all ingredients, chop the onion, and mince the garlic to prepare for cooking.

- Heat the large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil until shimmering and fragrant.

- Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes. The sausage should emit a rich aroma and develop a deep color.

- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the onion turning soft and slightly golden.

- Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching for bubbling around the edges.

- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the simmering broth, stirring gently. Cook until the noodles are just tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the hot soup, allowing them to melt into a bubbly, cheesy layer that coats the surface beautifully.
- Once the cheese has melted and the soup is hot and bubbling, ladle it into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a bright, herbal finish.
- Serve the soup immediately, enjoying the thick, cheesy texture and vibrant tomato flavors in every hearty spoonful.
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