One Pot Lasagna Soup is like your favorite lasagna in a cozy, slurpable form. It’s full of hearty ground beef, tender noodles, a rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese all simmered together in one pot. The flavors are warm and comforting, with that classic lasagna taste but in a soup that’s quicker and easier to make.
I love making this soup on chilly evenings when I want something filling but don’t want to spend a long time in the kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is actually pretty simple because everything cooks in the same pot, which saves time and cleanup. I often add a little extra cheese on top and serve it with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth.
This soup always brings back memories of family dinners and sharing hearty meals around the table. It’s a great dish to make when you want to treat yourself or bring a bit of comfort to someone else. I think you’re going to love how the flavors blend together, and the easy prep makes it a new favorite for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This adds the rich, meaty base. You can swap it for Italian sausage for extra flavor or ground turkey for a leaner option. I sometimes mix beef and pork for a fuller taste.
Lasagna noodles: Breaking them into pieces helps them cook quickly in the soup. If you can’t find them, broken spaghetti or penne work well.
Tomato paste and crushed tomatoes: These build deep tomato flavor. If fresh tomatoes are around, peeling and crushing them can be a nice fresh option.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts smoothly, and Parmesan adds sharpness. Ricotta on top is optional but adds creaminess, which I love for a comforting finish.
How Do I Prevent the Noodles from Sticking or Overcooking?
Since noodles cook right in the soup, you want to keep an eye on their texture:
- Break noodles into bite-sized pieces before adding.
- Stir often during simmering to stop them from clumping or sticking to the pot bottom.
- If the soup thickens too much, add a bit more water or broth to loosen it up.
- Check noodles for doneness a little before the suggested cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Following these tips keeps noodles tender but not mushy, making every bite perfect!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking everything in one pot and helps prevent sticking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – ideal for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and parsley easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the broth and spices balanced every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicy, herby kick.
- Add chopped spinach or kale near the end for a fresh, green boost and extra nutrients.
- Use vegetarian meat crumbles and vegetable broth for a meatless version.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or swap mozzarella for provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
How to Make One Pot Lasagna Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup (240 ml) water (adjust as needed)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: ½ cup ricotta cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, for a total of around 35 minutes. It’s a quick, one-pot dish that fills your kitchen with amazing lasagna flavors without the fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Vegetables:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring and breaking it up with a spoon, until brown all over and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Pour in the beef broth and season everything with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir it all together.
3. Cook the Noodles in the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Carefully add the broken lasagna noodles and the cup of water. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let everything simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
4. Add Cheese and Serve:
Once the noodles are done, sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and blends into the soup, making it rich and creamy. Ladle soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top if you like.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your warm, comforting one pot lasagna soup with some crusty bread or a simple side salad. It’s perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking with frozen beef can lead to uneven browning and longer cook times.
Can I Make One Pot Lasagna Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The flavors actually deepen when the soup sits overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. If the noodles soak up too much liquid, add broth or water to loosen before serving.
