Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
For the Toppings:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon.
3. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Vegetables and Aromatics:
1. Stir in the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Combine Broth and Tomatoes:
1. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken or beef broth. Stir to combine.
2. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Soup:
1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
1. Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the soup.
2. Simmer for an additional 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
6. Prepare the Cheese Topping:
1. In a small bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
2. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
7. Serve the Lasagna Soup:
1. Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s still hot.
2. Add a dollop of the cheese mixture on top of each serving, allowing it to melt slightly.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of flavor and color.
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Tips for Success:
For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with plant-based ground or sautéed mushrooms.
Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if the soup becomes too thick.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Enjoy this warm and comforting lasagna soup on a cozy night!
