Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your kitchen with this delightful Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup featuring creamy ricotta cheese. This comforting dish combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a hearty soup format, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Loaded with rich marinara, tender pasta, and melty cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
This lasagna soup is inspired by classic Italian flavors and made easy in just one pot. It's the perfect solution for those looking for an all-in-one meal that satisfies both the heart and the taste buds.
The Comfort of One-Pot Meals
One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy families and home cooks alike. Not only do they simplify the cooking process, but they also minimize the cleanup effort, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal rather than washing dishes. This Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup epitomizes the convenience of one-pot cooking by combining all your favorite lasagna components into a single, hearty dish.
With just one pot on the stove, you can simmer, sauté, and serve all in the same vessel. This method encourages flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, delicious soup that leaves you feeling satisfied. The ease of preparation paired with the comforting taste makes this recipe a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Nutritional Benefits of Lasagna Soup
Incorporating fresh ingredients into your meals can enhance both flavor and nutritional value. This Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup is loaded with wholesome components like fresh spinach and lean ground beef or sausage. Spinach is a power-packed leafy green, rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, making it an excellent addition to the dish.
Using low-sodium broth and less cheese also allows you to tailor the soup to meet dietary preferences while still enjoying a comforting taste. The balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber makes this meal satisfying without being overly indulgent, which is a win for health-conscious households.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a recipe that makes excellent leftovers, this Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup is it! The flavors develop even more after sitting, meaning it can taste even better the next day. Preparing a large batch not only saves time during the week but also provides you with warm, comforting meals that can be easily reheated.
For meal prep enthusiasts, consider portioning the soup into individual containers and topping them with the ricotta mixture just before serving. Not only does this keep the ricotta fresh, but it also elevates the presentation. With a simple reheating method, you can enjoy this heartwarming dish throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (like mafaldini or fusilli)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ricotta Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure you have everything prepped before starting!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious lasagna soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked pasta. Reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Stir in Spinach
After the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Once everything is cooked, serve hot with a dollop of the ricotta mixture on top!
Serving Suggestions
This Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup can stand alone as a nourishing meal, but if you're looking to elevate your dining experience, consider serving it with a crusty loaf of garlic bread. The bread pairs perfectly for dipping into the savory broth, enhancing every mouthful with its buttery, garlicky goodness.
A simple side salad can also complement this dish superbly. A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will balance the hearty flavors of the soup, adding a refreshing and crisp element to your meal.
Tips for Customization
One of the beauties of this lasagna soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on dietary preferences or what's available in your pantry. Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and consider adding chopped vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
For a touch of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the soup. Experimenting with different varieties of cheese, like mozzarella or bocconcini, can also bring new flavors while maintaining that classic lasagna essence.
Storage and Reheating
To store your leftover Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerated, it should last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months, making it an ideal option for batch cooking.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed, as this can help bring the soup back to its original consistency. Enjoy the convenience of a delicious homemade meal any time!
Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Cheese
Warm up your kitchen with this delightful Cozy, One-Pot Lasagna Soup featuring creamy ricotta cheese. This comforting dish combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a hearty soup format, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Loaded with rich marinara, tender pasta, and melty cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (like mafaldini or fusilli)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ricotta Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked pasta. Reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
After the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 22g