Indulge in this Cheesy Beef Lasagna Soup, a hearty twist on a classic Italian favorite. Rich, savory beef simmers with aromatic herbs and tender vegetables in a tomato-based broth, while broken lasagna noodles add the comforting texture of traditional lasagna. Every spoonful is topped with a creamy ricotta and cheese blend, creating a decadent, soul-warming experience perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.
This easy-to-make soup combines all the flavors of a traditional lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and baking. It’s an ideal meal for busy families craving comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. The combination of tender beef, vegetables, herbs, and cheesy goodness makes this dish irresistible, perfect for any season or occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Family-approved: Cheesy, hearty, and loved by kids and adults alike.
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Easy to prepare: Uses simple ingredients and a slow cooker for hands-off cooking.
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Comfort food classic: All the flavors of lasagna in a cozy soup.
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Customizable: Add vegetables, spices, or switch up the cheeses.
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Meal prep-friendly: Makes excellent leftovers and reheats beautifully.
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Party-perfect: Serves as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
Ingredient Breakdown
Ground beef (2 lbs, 80/20 blend): Provides a rich, meaty base and classic lasagna flavor.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Sautéing vegetables in oil brings out their natural sweetness.
Yellow onion (1 cup, diced) and green pepper (1 medium, diced): Add flavor, color, and texture.
Garlic (2 tbsp, minced): Infuses a savory, aromatic undertone.
Diced tomatoes (14 oz can) and crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Form the hearty, tangy base of the soup.
Beef stock or broth (6 cups): Deepens the savory flavor of the soup.
Dried basil (3 tsp) and oregano (2 tsp): Classic Italian herbs that balance the rich beef and tomato base.
Kosher salt (1 tsp): Enhances overall flavor.
Lasagna noodles (10–12, broken): Provides texture reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
Ricotta cheese (8 oz), parmesan (1/2 cup), mozzarella (1/2 cup), dried oregano and basil, salt and pepper: Create a creamy, cheesy topping that melts into the soup for ultimate indulgence.
Pro Tips
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Brown the beef properly: Ensure it’s fully browned and drained for a rich, non-greasy soup.
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Sauté vegetables first: Enhances flavor and softens them before slow cooking.
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Use a slow cooker for convenience: Hands-off cooking allows flavors to meld perfectly.
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Add noodles last: Prevents overcooking and mushy texture.
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Mix cheese topping thoroughly: Even distribution ensures every bite is creamy and cheesy.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Protein alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different twist.
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Noodle options: Swap lasagna noodles for penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta.
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Cheese variations: Try fontina, provolone, or gouda for a unique cheesy flavor.
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Vegetable add-ins: Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots enhance nutrition and texture.
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Spice it up: Red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning blends give it a subtle kick.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve hot with a spoonful of the creamy ricotta-parmesan topping.
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Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for color and fresh flavor.
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Pair with garlic bread, cheesy breadsticks, or a simple green salad.
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Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or balsamic reduction for added richness.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure spices before cooking for faster assembly.
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; noodles may absorb liquid, so add broth when reheating.
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Freezing: Freeze before adding noodles; add fresh or cooked noodles when reheating.
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Reheating: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
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Meal prep tip: Prepare the cheese topping separately and add right before serving for freshness.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Beef lasagna soup takes inspiration from traditional Italian lasagna but simplifies it into a cozy, spoonable dish. It blends the classic flavors of tomato, cheese, and ground beef with the convenience of a soup, making it a modern comfort food favorite. This style of “lasagna in a bowl” has become popular in Italian-American cuisine, celebrated for its ease, flavor, and family-friendly appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, cook browned beef and vegetables in a large pot, then simmer with broth and tomatoes for 45 minutes. Add noodles last and cook until tender.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely. Mozzarella, provolone, or fontina work well. Ricotta is key for creaminess.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freeze before adding noodles. Reheat slowly and add cooked pasta when ready to serve.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Noodles may absorb broth, so add a splash of water or stock when reheating.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a gentle heat.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat substitutes and use vegetable broth.
Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef with salt and pepper, drain excess fat, and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3 minutes, then add green pepper for 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat.
- Transfer browned beef to a slow cooker. Add sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours.
- Stir in broken lasagna noodles. Cover and cook on high for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Meanwhile, prepare cheese topping by mixing ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- To serve, ladle hot soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.