What Is Lasagna Soup?
Lasagna soup is a delightful fusion of traditional lasagna flavors presented in a hearty, brothy form. This innovative dish combines the rich taste of tomato sauce, savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and creamy cheeses, all simmered together to create a comforting and easy-to-prepare meal.
Unlike the classic layered pasta dish, lasagna soup simplifies the process by incorporating all the beloved components into a single pot, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients for Lasagna Soup
To prepare a flavorful lasagna soup, gather the following ingredients:
- Italian Sausage: Opt for sweet or spicy varieties to infuse the soup with robust flavor. Sausage offers a depth that surpasses regular ground meat.
- Aromatics: Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic as the base. For an added layer of flavor, consider including chopped fennel, which enhances the Italian essence of the dish.
- Seasonings: Utilize a blend of Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat.
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed or puréed tomatoes work well. If using whole or diced tomatoes, blend them slightly to achieve the desired consistency.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth serves as the liquid foundation. In a pinch, water combined with bouillon cubes can suffice.
- Lasagna Noodles: Break traditional lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. Alternatively, other sturdy pasta shapes like bowtie, rigatoni, or penne can be used.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the soup’s richness. Adding a Parmesan rind during simmering imparts additional depth.
- Ricotta Cheese: A dollop of ricotta added just before serving introduces a creamy texture, melting seamlessly into the hot broth.
How to Make Lasagna Soup
Follow these steps to create a delicious pot of lasagna soup:
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 6 to 10 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels, discarding excess fat from the pot.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions, chopped fennel (if using), and minced garlic with a pinch of kosher salt. Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Toast the Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning and cook for about a minute until fragrant. For added depth, incorporate a tablespoon of tomato paste at this stage.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the broth and add the blended tomatoes. Return the browned sausage to the pot. If available, include a Parmesan rind. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate the Pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles or chosen pasta to the pot. Continue to simmer until the pasta reaches an al dente texture, typically 10 to 15 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, topping each with a spoonful of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Variations of Lasagna Soup
This versatile recipe welcomes various adaptations to suit different preferences:
- Meat Variations: Substitute or combine the sausage with ground beef, pork, or poultry such as chicken or turkey to alter the flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and replace it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Adding beans such as cannellini or chickpeas can boost protein content.
- Cheese Enhancements: Mix herbs like basil or lemon zest into the ricotta for a fresh twist. Alternatively, top the soup with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, then broil briefly to achieve a melted, golden crust reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
- Pasta Alternatives: While broken lasagna noodles are traditional, other pasta shapes like bowtie, rigatoni, or penne can be used. Some cooks prefer these shapes as they may hold up better, especially in leftovers.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Soup
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency, as the pasta may absorb some liquid over time.
- Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the pasta, as it can become mushy upon thawing. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook fresh pasta to add directly before serving.
- Flavor Boosters: Incorporating a splash of red wine during the simmering process can deepen the flavor. Additionally, a dash of balsamic vinegar added just before serving can provide a subtle acidity that brightens the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad to complete the meal. A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, complements the rich flavors of the soup.
Conclusion
Lasagna soup offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, combining the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a convenient, one-pot meal. Its adaptability allows for personalization, catering to various dietary preferences and tastes.
Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a hearty family dinner, this soup is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.