Introduction: Experience the essence of Italy in a comforting bowl of One-Pot Lasagna Soup. This hearty and flavorful dish captures the essence of traditional lasagna, but with the ease of a soup. With rich tomato broth, tender pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy cheese, this recipe combines all of your favorite flavors in a one-pot wonder.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Break it up using a spoon and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and water. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Cook the Pasta:
- Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Prepare the Cheesy Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Season and Serve:
- Once the pasta is tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with a generous spoonful of the cheesy mixture.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
A Bowl of Comfort One-Pot Lasagna Soup brings the essence of classic Italian comfort to your dinner table. This convenient and flavorful recipe combines the richness of lasagna with the warmth of a bowl of soup. It’s a perfect solution for those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal without the hassle of layering and baking. Serve it up, savor the flavors, and enjoy a taste of Italy in every spoonful.