Steam curls from the pot, releasing an aroma that transforms your kitchen into an Italian trattoria. The Lasagna Soup with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella combines everything you love about classic lasagna with the comfort of a warming soup. This caprese style soup transforms the traditional layered pasta dish into a one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple to create.
Furthermore, this fresh herb italian soup brings together the holy trinity of Italian flavors: ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella. Additionally, you’ll find that this easy soup recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without the complexity. Meanwhile, the melty cheese soup element creates those irresistible cheese pulls that make every spoonful memorable.
Most importantly, this cozy italian dinner option requires just 30 minutes from start to finish. Moreover, the recipe serves as an excellent example of mozzarella soup ideas that actually work for busy weeknights. Consequently, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies pasta cravings while providing the comfort of soup.
Ingredients
This basil tomato soup requires fresh, high-quality ingredients for maximum impact. Therefore, gather these components for the perfect tomato basil pasta soup:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced (yellow or white)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (substitute: ground turkey or beef)
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (plus fresh for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta and Cheese Components:
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed (substitute: part-skim mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Substitution Options:
- Gluten-free pasta works perfectly
- Dairy-free cheese alternatives maintain texture
- Ground chicken creates a lighter version
- Coconut milk adds richness for dairy-free options
Timing
This melty cheese soup requires strategic timing for best results. Therefore, plan approximately:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Notably, this timing beats traditional lasagna by 75%, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Additionally, the quick cooking time preserves the fresh herb flavors that make this fresh herb italian soup special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat and Sauté the Base
First, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Then, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This foundation creates the aromatic base for your caprese style soup.
Brown the Protein
Subsequently, add ground Italian sausage to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon while cooking for 5-6 minutes. Continue cooking until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains. This step builds the hearty protein component that makes this cozy italian dinner so satisfying.
Build the Soup Base
Afterward, stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creates the flavorful foundation for your basil tomato soup.
Add the Pasta
Once simmering, add broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender but not mushy. This timing keeps the noodles perfectly al dente in your tomato basil pasta soup.
Incorporate the Cheeses
Finally, reduce heat to low and stir in cubed mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Gently fold the cheeses into the soup until melted and creamy. Remove from heat immediately to prevent curdling. This final step creates the signature melty cheese soup texture that makes this recipe irresistible.
Finish with Fresh Herbs
Lastly, stir in fresh basil and parsley just before serving. Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil. This finishing touch completes your easy soup recipe with authentic Italian flair.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Lasagna Soup with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella provides approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Calcium | 285mg |
| Iron | 3.2mg |
Importantly, this mozzarella soup ideas recipe provides 56% of your daily protein needs. Additionally, the calcium content supports bone health, while the lycopene from tomatoes offers antioxidant benefits.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this fresh herb italian soup into a lighter version with these smart swaps:
Protein Modifications:
Replace Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for 30% fewer calories. Alternatively, use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version. These changes maintain the hearty texture while reducing saturated fat content.
Dairy Adjustments:
Substitute part-skim mozzarella and low-fat ricotta to cut calories by 25%. Furthermore, Greek yogurt can replace half the ricotta for added protein. These modifications keep the melty cheese soup quality intact.
Pasta Options:
Choose whole wheat or legume-based pasta for increased fiber. Additionally, zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles dramatically reduce carbohydrates. These alternatives work well for low-carb or gluten-free diets.
Sodium Reduction:
Use low-sodium broth and limit added salt. Moreover, increase herbs and spices to maintain flavor without excess sodium. This modification makes the basil tomato soup heart-healthier.
Serving Suggestions
Present this caprese style soup with complementary sides that amplify the Italian experience:
Bread Pairings:
Serve with crusty garlic bread or focaccia for dipping. Additionally, toasted baguette slices with herb butter complement the soup perfectly. These options turn the meal into a complete cozy italian dinner.
Salad Combinations:
Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Alternatively, a classic Caesar salad provides textural contrast. These fresh elements balance the richness of the tomato basil pasta soup.
Wine Suggestions:
Chianti Classico or Sangiovese complement the tomato base beautifully. For white wine lovers, Pinot Grigio offers a crisp counterpoint. These pairings complete the Italian dining experience.
Garnish Ideas:
Top with additional fresh basil, crushed red pepper, or a drizzle of good olive oil. Furthermore, a dollop of ricotta adds extra creaminess. These finishing touches make each bowl Instagram-worthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent these frequent errors when making this melty cheese soup:
Overcooking the Pasta:
Monitor pasta closely during cooking. Overcooked noodles become mushy and break apart. Test for doneness 2 minutes before the package directions suggest.
Adding Cheese Too Hot:
Let the soup cool slightly before adding cheese. High heat causes mozzarella to become stringy and ricotta to curdle. Temperature control keeps the cheese smooth and creamy.
Skipping Fresh Herbs:
Don’t rely solely on dried herbs for this fresh herb italian soup. Fresh basil added at the end provides the bright flavor that makes this recipe special.
Insufficient Seasoning:
Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking. The cheese and pasta absorb flavors, so the base should be well-seasoned. This prevents a bland final result.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Maximize freshness and safety with proper storage techniques:
Refrigerator Storage:
Store leftover Lasagna Soup with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella in airtight containers for up to 4 days. However, note that pasta continues absorbing liquid, so add extra broth when reheating.
Freezer Options:
Freeze portions without the cheese for up to 3 months. Add fresh mozzarella and ricotta when reheating for best texture. This method preserves the basil tomato soup base perfectly.
Reheating Instructions:
Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Add extra broth if needed to achieve desired consistency. Avoid boiling, which can cause cheese to separate.
Make-Ahead Tips:
Prepare the soup base without pasta and cheese up to 2 days ahead. Add pasta and cheese when ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Lasagna Soup with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella delivers all the comfort of traditional lasagna in a fraction of the time. Moreover, the recipe proves that mozzarella soup ideas can be both sophisticated and simple. The combination of fresh herbs, quality cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a memorable meal that satisfies both weeknight needs and weekend entertaining.
Try this easy soup recipe tonight and experience how quickly it becomes a family favorite. Share your results in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with your soup creations!
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the base without pasta and cheese up to 2 days ahead. Add these components when reheating for best texture.
What pasta shape works best besides lasagna noodles?
Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work excellently. Choose shapes that hold the cheese and herbs well.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Freeze the soup base without cheese for up to 3 months. Add fresh cheese when reheating for optimal results.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace Italian sausage with mushrooms, plant-based crumbles, or extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I prevent the cheese from becoming stringy?
Remove the pot from heat before adding cheese and let it cool slightly. Stir gently to incorporate without overheating.
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