How does one bowl transform the beloved complexity of traditional lasagna into a cozy marinara dinner that takes just 45 minutes to prepare? This Creamy Marinara Lasagna Soup captures every layer of that classic Italian comfort without the fuss of assembly or hours of baking time.
Instead of spending your evening layering noodles, ricotta, and sauce, you’ll stir together a hearty tomato soup that delivers all those familiar flavors in liquid form. Furthermore, this easy weeknight pasta recipe satisfies the whole family while requiring minimal cleanup. Additionally, the creamy texture and melted cheese create that same satisfaction you get from cutting into a perfect square of lasagna. This family pasta meal brings together tender pasta, rich marinara, and plenty of cheese in one warming bowl that makes any weeknight feel special.
Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make this marinara soup recipe truly shine. Here’s everything you need to create this cheesy italian soup:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (white onion works too)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (substitute turkey sausage for lighter option)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (use your favorite jarred brand)
- 4 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Pasta and Dairy:
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (half-and-half reduces calories)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Seasonings:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
The beauty of this comfort food lies in its flexibility. Swap ground beef for sausage, use cottage cheese instead of ricotta, or add spinach for extra nutrition.
Timing
This creamy tomato pasta soup comes together surprisingly quickly:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional lasagna that requires 90 minutes, this soup version saves you nearly 50% of your cooking time. Moreover, most of the cooking happens hands-off while the soup simmers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic foundation sets the stage for your hearty tomato soup.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add ground Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains. The rendered fat from the sausage adds richness to your marinara soup recipe. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in marinara sauce, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and Italian seasoning. Subsequently, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles will absorb some liquid and become tender while releasing starch that naturally thickens the soup.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Element
In a small bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese and heavy cream until smooth. This prevents the dairy from curdling when added to the hot soup. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup, then add half the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The result is a cozy marinara dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this family pasta meal provides approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 | 24% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fat | 24g | 37% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sodium | 1,180mg | 51% |
| Calcium | 385mg | 38% |
This comfort food provides substantial protein from the sausage and cheese, making it a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours. Additionally, the tomatoes contribute lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this cheesy italian soup into a lighter version without sacrificing flavor:
Protein Swaps: Replace Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles. These alternatives reduce saturated fat while maintaining the hearty texture.
Dairy Modifications: Use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella to cut calories by approximately 150 per serving. Furthermore, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Vegetable Additions: Stir in chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking. These additions boost fiber and vitamins while adding color.
Pasta Alternatives: Try whole wheat lasagna noodles, chickpea pasta, or zucchini noodles for added nutrients and lower carbohydrates.
Serving Suggestions
Present this easy weeknight pasta in creative ways that make dinner special:
Ladle the soup into deep bowls and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden. This technique mimics the classic lasagna experience.
Serve alongside crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
For entertaining, set up a toppings bar with extra cheese, fresh basil, red pepper flakes, and crusty bread. This interactive approach lets each person customize their bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent these pitfalls to perfect your marinara soup recipe:
Overcooking the Pasta: Lasagna noodles continue cooking in the hot soup even after removing from heat. Stop cooking when they’re just tender to avoid mushy texture.
Adding Dairy Too Quickly: Hot soup can cause cream and ricotta to curdle. Always temper dairy ingredients by whisking them with a small amount of hot soup first.
Skipping the Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs build the base, but fresh basil added at the end brightens the entire dish. Don’t skip this final step.
Not Tasting for Seasoning: Canned tomatoes and broth vary in salt content. Always taste before serving and adjust accordingly.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage keeps this hearty tomato soup delicious for days:
Refrigerator Storage: Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. The soup keeps for 3-4 days refrigerated. Note that pasta will continue absorbing liquid, so you may need to thin with additional broth when reheating.
Freezer Storage: This soup freezes for up to 3 months, though the pasta texture changes slightly. For best results, freeze the soup base without pasta and cook fresh noodles when serving.
Reheating Tips: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add splashes of broth or water if the soup becomes too thick. Avoid boiling, which can break the creamy texture.
Conclusion
This Creamy Marinara Lasagna Soup proves that weeknight dinners don’t require hours in the kitchen to taste extraordinary. By transforming classic lasagna into soup form, you get all the beloved flavors in a fraction of the time. The combination of tender pasta, rich marinara, and melted cheese creates pure comfort food satisfaction.
Ready to make your weeknights easier and more delicious? Try this recipe tonight and discover how simple it is to bring authentic Italian flavors to your dinner table. Share your results in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us in your social media posts!
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for substance.
What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
Any short pasta works well. Try penne, rigatoni, or even broken spaghetti. Adjust cooking time based on package directions.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but prepare the soup base without pasta. Cook and add fresh pasta when ready to serve for best texture.
How do I prevent the soup from being too thick?
Keep extra warm broth on hand to thin as needed. The pasta absorbs liquid as it sits, so this adjustment is normal.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes work, but you’ll need about 2 pounds, peeled and chopped. Canned tomatoes actually provide more consistent flavor year-round.
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