This Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tasty pasta, rich tomatoes, and fresh basil, it’s comfort food at its best.
You can enjoy this soup with a sprinkle of cheese on top, and trust me, it makes it even better! It’s my go-to when I want something cozy without the fuss. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both add great flavor, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or mushrooms instead.
Onion: A small onion enhances the base flavor. If you’re in a rush, shallots or even onion powder can be convenient substitutes. For a milder taste, green onions work well too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth, but if you’re short on time, minced garlic from a jar works in a pinch. I enjoy using garlic powder as a last-minute sprinkle for extra flavor.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are great, but feel free to swap in any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta are all good choices!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted. I sometimes use coconut cream for a dairy-free twist that still adds richness.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Soup?
Getting rich flavor in your Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup is all about layering. Start with browning the meat, which develops amazing depth. Then, when cooking the onions and garlic, don’t rush—let them get nice and soft.
- Brown the meat until it’s well-cooked; draining the fat reduces greasiness.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant but not burned; this step is key for flavor.
- Add your tomatoes and spices, then let it simmer. This waiting period blends all the flavors beautifully.
Finally, the heavy cream and cheeses should be added off the heat to prevent them from curdling. Enjoy your hearty soup with a sprinkle of fresh basil, and let all the delicious flavors shine through!
Delicious Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup can be made in about 40 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep work (chopping and measuring ingredients), and about 30 minutes cooking. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat so your soup doesn’t get too greasy.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This will build a lovely flavor base for your soup!
3. Mix in the Tomatoes and Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and broth. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This is where the flavors blend beautifully!
4. Add the Noodles:
After the simmering time, toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Cook until the pasta is tender, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
5. Finish it Off:
When the noodles are perfectly cooked, stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a garnish of freshly sliced basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve it hot with some crusty bread for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your hearty Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup—it’s a cozy dish you won’t forget!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef or Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just make sure to season accordingly, as some alternatives may need extra flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the noodles may soak up some liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for about 2-3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-friendly container.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while mixing in the tomatoes. For a milder flavor, you can leave out the black pepper or chili spices!
