This Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a cozy twist on traditional lasagna. It features hearty beef, noodles, and rich tomato sauce, all cooked together in one pot!
I love how quick and simple this soup is to make. Just toss everything in, let it simmer, and enjoy a warm bowl that tastes like a hug! 🍲😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is your main protein and adds a hearty flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just remember that turkey is milder, so you might need extra spices to boost the flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A jar of store-bought marinara makes this recipe super easy! If you want to skip the jar, use crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning instead. You can also add a splash of red wine for more depth.
Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles work great, but you can switch to gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles if you need a low-carb option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you prefer a lighter option, cottage cheese can also work! For dairy-free, try a plant-based ricotta or skip the cheese entirely.
How Do I Cook the Noodles Without Them Getting Mushy?
A common challenge is cooking the noodles in the soup without them turning mushy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cook the noodles for just 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on their doneness. Stir regularly to keep them from sticking.
- Always add the noodles just before serving. If you’re making it ahead, cook the noodles separately and add them when you reheat the soup.
This way, they stay nice and firm, making each bowl enjoyable! Personal tip: I sometimes add the noodles right before serving for a fresh texture!
Stovetop Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce (about 3 cups)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 8 oz uncooked wide egg noodles or lasagna noodles broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in about 40 minutes or less, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if there is too much!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
3. Combine the Sauces:
Now, it’s time to add flavor. Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, and the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!). Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and add the uncooked noodles. Cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the noodles don’t stick. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach your desired tenderness!
5. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once the noodles are tender, it’s time to serve!
6. Serve It Up:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a touch of fresh basil or parsley for that lovely color and flavor. Enjoy your warm and delicious stovetop lasagna soup with some crackers or crusty bread on the side!
Dig in and savor every bite! 🍽️❤️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be aware that it has a milder flavor, so you might want to enhance the seasonings a bit to suit your taste.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute marinara with crushed tomatoes and add extra Italian herbs like oregano and basil to mimic the flavor. A splash of red wine can add depth, too!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein, like lentils or chopped mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You’ll still end up with a delicious and hearty soup!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or water to revive the soup’s texture, as the noodles may soak up some of the liquid.
