Steam curls from the pot as layers of savory flavors meld together, transforming traditional Italian comfort food into something extraordinary. This Lasagna Soup with Italian Herbs captures all the beloved elements of classic lasagna while creating a completely new experience for your dinner table. Furthermore, this Italian Comfort Soup delivers the same satisfying taste without the lengthy assembly process.
When you want the rich flavors of lasagna but crave the warmth of soup, this recipe bridges both worlds perfectly. Additionally, this Family Pasta Soup brings everyone together for a memorable meal that feels both familiar and exciting. The combination of tender pasta, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a Hearty Dinner Idea that satisfies even the hungriest appetites.
This Cozy Dinner Recipe transforms your kitchen into an Italian trattoria, filling your home with irresistible aromas. Moreover, the recipe adapts easily to different family sizes and dietary preferences while maintaining its authentic character.
Ingredients
This Pasta Soup Recipe requires carefully selected ingredients that work together harmoniously. Here’s what you’ll need for this Cheesy Pasta Meal:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (substitute: ground turkey or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (substitute: shallots for milder flavor)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced fresh
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (substitute: avocado oil)
Liquid Foundation:
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (substitute: vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, fire-roasted preferred
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce, no sugar added
Pasta & Herbs:
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (substitute: 2 teaspoons dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (substitute: 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Cheese Blend:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, whole milk
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese for extra richness
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust after tasting)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 bay leaf for depth
Timing
This Italian Herb Soup requires strategic timing for best results. Total preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time spans 35 minutes. Therefore, you’ll invest about 50 minutes total, which is 30% faster than traditional layered lasagna.
Time Breakdown:
- Prep work: 15 minutes
- Sautéing base: 8 minutes
- Simmering soup: 20 minutes
- Adding pasta: 12-15 minutes
- Final cheese incorporation: 2-3 minutes
Plan to serve immediately after completion for optimal texture and temperature. However, you can prepare the base up to 24 hours ahead and add pasta when ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build the Flavor Foundation
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Next, push the meat to one side and add diced onions to the cleared space. This technique prevents overcrowding while building layers of flavor.
Step 2: Create the Aromatic Base
Once onions become translucent (about 3 minutes), add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper. The combination should smell irresistibly savory at this point.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the meat mixture. Add fresh basil, oregano, thyme, and the bay leaf. Season with red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors.
Step 4: Build the Soup Base
Gradually add chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover partially and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This develops the rich, complex flavors characteristic of this Comfort Food Soup.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add broken lasagna pieces to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions minus 1-2 minutes since the pasta will continue cooking in the hot broth. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, especially during the first few minutes.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Remove the bay leaf before adding cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup. Finally, add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring gently until melted and creamy.
Nutritional Information
This Hearty Dinner Idea provides substantial nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 | 24% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fat | 24g | 31% |
| Fiber | 4g | 14% |
| Calcium | 385mg | 30% |
| Iron | 3.2mg | 18% |
The recipe delivers high-quality protein from both meat and dairy sources. Additionally, the tomatoes provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health. The herbs contribute vitamins A and C while adding minimal calories.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this Italian Comfort Soup into a lighter version without sacrificing flavor:
Protein Swaps:
Replace Italian sausage with 93% lean ground turkey or chicken. Alternatively, use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version that still provides satisfying texture.
Dairy Modifications:
Substitute part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella to cut calories by approximately 150 per serving. Use Greek yogurt mixed with a small amount of cream cheese for tang and protein.
Pasta Alternatives:
Try whole wheat lasagna noodles for added fiber, or use shirataki noodles for a low-carb option. Zucchini ribbons also work beautifully while adding vegetables.
Vegetable Additions:
Boost nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These ingredients increase fiber and vitamins while maintaining the soup’s hearty character.
Serving Suggestions
This Family Pasta Soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:
Bread Options:
Serve alongside crusty Italian bread brushed with garlic butter. Alternatively, try focaccia or warm dinner rolls for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Salad Pairings:
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Caesar salad also complements the Italian flavors wonderfully.
Wine Suggestions:
Pair with Chianti Classico or Sangiovese for red wine lovers. White wine enthusiasts will enjoy Pinot Grigio or a crisp Soave.
Garnish Ideas:
Top each bowl with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of good olive oil, or additional Parmesan cheese. Crushed red pepper flakes add heat for those who enjoy spice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent these frequent errors when making this Cozy Dinner Recipe:
Overcooking Pasta:
The biggest mistake involves cooking pasta too long in the soup. Since pasta continues cooking in hot broth, undercook it slightly during the initial cooking phase.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly:
Rushing the cheese addition causes clumping and separation. Instead, temper the ricotta mixture and add cheeses gradually while stirring constantly.
Insufficient Seasoning:
Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking. Large-batch soups often need more salt and herbs than expected to achieve proper flavor balance.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese:
Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese creates the creamy texture that makes this soup special.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage maintains the quality of this Pasta Soup Recipe:
Refrigerator Storage:
Store cooled soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The pasta will absorb some liquid, so add extra broth when reheating to restore the proper consistency.
Freezer Guidelines:
Freeze the soup base without pasta for up to 3 months. Cook pasta separately when ready to serve for best texture. Frozen soup with pasta becomes mushy upon thawing.
Reheating Instructions:
Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add additional broth or water as needed since the pasta continues absorbing liquid even when stored.
Make-Ahead Strategy:
Prepare the soup base completely and store separately from cooked pasta. Combine just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Lasagna Soup with Italian Herbs brings together everything you love about traditional lasagna in a comforting, accessible format. The recipe delivers rich flavors, satisfying textures, and the warmth that makes family dinners memorable. Moreover, this Cheesy Pasta Meal adapts easily to different dietary needs while maintaining its authentic Italian character.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup provides the perfect solution. Try making this recipe tonight and discover how simple ingredients transform into something truly special. Don’t forget to share your results and any creative variations you develop along the way!
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FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the Italian sausage with plant-based crumbles or a mixture of diced mushrooms and walnuts. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely vegetarian Italian Herb Soup.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue softening in the hot broth. If making ahead, store the soup base and pasta separately, combining them when ready to serve.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While broken lasagna noodles are traditional, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or shells. Choose sturdy pasta shapes that hold up well in soup and complement the chunky texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Increase red pepper flakes, add diced jalapeños with the onions, or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You can also finish with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Heat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add extra broth as needed since the pasta absorbs liquid during storage. Avoid microwaving on high power, which can cause uneven heating.
