This Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tasty ground beef, gooey cheese, and tasty noodles, it’s perfect for warming up your chilly evenings.
Honestly, who could resist the cheesy goodness? I love to top mine with extra cheese—and maybe some garlic bread for dipping! It’s a cozy meal that feels like home. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken also works well. For a vegetarian version, swap it with lentils or mushrooms!
Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, while mozzarella provides that melty goodness. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a nice substitute. Try adding Parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor!
Pasta: Rotini is perfect for this soup as it holds onto the sauce nicely. You can use any short pasta like fusilli or penne. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta varieties that work for soups!
Herbs: Dried herbs bring great flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can brighten up the dish. If you only have one or the other, adjust the amounts to keep it tasty!
How Can I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Soup?
Don’t rush the cooking process; allowing each ingredient to develop its flavor makes a difference. Start by sautéing the onion in olive oil until soft, as it forms the flavor base. The garlic adds a fragrant kick—don’t let it burn!
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly for a richer taste.
- Simmer the soup for at least 15 minutes to help the flavors meld together.
- Stir in the cheese off the heat to keep it creamy and smooth.
Trust me, taking your time will lead to a comforting bowl of goodness! And don’t forget to garnish it for a pop of color and freshness!
Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups rotini or other short pasta
For the Cheese Toppings:
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Ground Beef Lasagna Soup requires about 10 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes of cooking time. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Drizzle in some olive oil, then add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This forms the aromatic base of our soup!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Carefully bring the entire mixture to a simmer and let it bubble away.
4. Simmer & Add Pasta:
Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This is where the flavors come together and deepen. After 15 minutes, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This will melt beautifully into the warm soup!
6. Serve the Soup:
Pour the soup into serving bowls. Add generous dollops of ricotta cheese on top, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. It’s all about the cheese, right?
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy ground beef lasagna soup with some crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
This soup is the delicious taste of lasagna in a bowl, creamy and cheesy, perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly milder, so you might want to season it a bit more to taste.
How Do I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the delicious flavor!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick. Fresh cheese tastes best when added just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating to prevent sogginess.
