Description

Imagine a steaming bowl of comfort filled with layers of flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. This delightful soup combines the satisfying elements of traditional lasagna—savory meat, rich tomato sauce, delicate pasta, and plenty of oozing cheese—into a warm, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its roots in classic Italian cuisine, this recipe captures the essence of home cooking, making it not just a meal but a celebration of culinary tradition.

What makes this soup particularly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. It is a fantastic one-pot dish that brings the whole family to the table and can evoke fond memories of cozy nights spent enjoying hearty meals. Whether you're hosting a gathering, looking for something comforting after a long day, or simply treating yourself, this layered pasta soup is sure to impress. It offers a delightful combination of spices and textures that makes each spoonful an enjoyable experience.

Get ready to explore a recipe that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. As we dive into the ingredients and preparation process, you’ll see how simple it is to recreate this Italian feast in your own kitchen. So put on your apron, and let's embark on this flavorful journey!

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
• 1 pound (450g) of ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (1 liter) of chicken or beef broth
• 1 cup of water (adjust as needed for desired consistency)
• 2 teaspoons of Italian herb mix
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust based on heat preference)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 lasagna noodles (broken into bite-sized pieces)
• For the Cheese Topping:
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Preparation Method

To begin making the soup, gather all your ingredients and choose a large pot or Dutch oven that provides ample space for cooking and simmering. Start by preheating your pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your choice of ground beef or Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. You'll want it to brown evenly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remember to drain excess fat if you're using beef, as it will help keep the soup from becoming too greasy.

As the meat cooks, add the diced onion and chopped garlic to the pot. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing them to soften and their flavors to meld. The kitchen will fill with a delightful aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come. Stir often to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Next, it’s time to build the flavors of your soup. Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, followed by the broth you’ve selected—chicken for a lighter touch or beef for a heartier profile. Incorporate the cup of water to adjust the consistency to your preference (you can always add more later if needed).

Now, sprinkle in the mixed Italian herbs, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and pepper, keeping in mind that you can always adjust the seasoning later. Stir everything together well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil, and once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes. This simmering phase allows all those wonderful flavors to blend and deepen, resulting in a rich and savory broth.

Once the soup has simmered, it’s time to add the lasagna noodles. Carefully stir in the broken pieces, ensuring they’re well mixed in with the sauce. You’ll want to cook these noodles for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Keep an eye on the texture; you want the noodles to be al dente—perfectly tender yet with a subtle bite.

While the pasta is cooking, let’s prepare the cheese topping. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix them thoroughly until you have a creamy and cheesy blend that will bring an indulgent touch to each bowl of soup.

After the noodles have reached the desired tenderness, reduce the heat to low. Stir the cheesy mixture into the soup, allowing a generous spoonful on top of each bowl before serving. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese slightly, blending all those fabulous flavors together in each bite.

Once the soup is ready, ladle generous portions into bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil if desired. This simple garnish not only looks appealing but also adds a beautiful brightness to your dish.

Tips and Conclusion

To elevate your dining experience further, consider serving the soup with a side of crusty garlic bread or a light salad. Both make excellent accompaniments and help soak up the rich soup. If you’re looking for variations, feel free to experiment with different proteins such as ground turkey or chicken. You can also include chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add more nutrition and bulk to the soup. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with lentils or a medley of mushrooms, making sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

This soup stores beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. In an airtight container, it can be safely refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or water to maintain the optimal consistency.
Cooking this layered pasta soup not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also warms your spirit with its comforting essence. Each spoonful is packed with the hearty goodness of meat, tangy tomatoes, and melted cheese—effectively bringing all the joy of lasagna in a delightful and convenient soup form.

This dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, creating an experience that’s as wonderful as the meal itself. We hope you enjoyed this journey through an amazing recipe, and we encourage you to explore more of our delicious offerings that celebrate the richness of Italian cuisine. Share this recipe with your loved ones, and be sure to check out our website for more culinary inspirations. Happy cooking!