This Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup is a cozy bowl of joy! Packed with rich tomato flavor and a kick of heat, it’s like lasagna but in a warm, slurpable soup form.
Let’s be real, who wouldn’t love cheesy noodles swimming in spicy tomato broth? It’s the perfect mix for a chilly day. I often top it with extra cheese just because! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This is a key flavor player! If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage works great. You can also use any ground meat you prefer, including chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes bring convenience and a rich flavor. If you’re fresh out, you can substitute with diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce. Just be mindful that the taste may vary slightly!
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles add unique texture. You can use any pasta you have on hand, like broken spaghetti or penne, but ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Cheeses: Ricotta and mozzarella are classic choices! If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese would work too. For a stronger flavor, consider using provolone or goat cheese in place of mozzarella.
How Do You Make Sure the Noodles Don’t Get Mushy?
One common challenge in soups is ensuring that the noodles don’t become mushy. Here’s my tip for perfect noodles in your soup:
- Break lasagna noodles before adding them to the soup to ensure even cooking and better distribution.
- Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking—about 8-10 minutes should do the trick.
- Stir occasionally so they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
This way, you’ll have deliciously tender noodles with just the right texture, holding up beautifully in your warming bowl of soup!
Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Crusty bread, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This amazing Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage (or beef) and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until you can smell the fragrant aroma!
3. Combine the Base:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Add the Noodles:
Carefully add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir occasionally and let it simmer until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for getting a good texture in your soup!
5. Add the Spinach:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the roughly chopped spinach. Allow it to wilt for about 2 minutes, enriching your soup with a lovely green color and nutrients!
6. Finish with Cheese:
Turn off the heat. Gently dollop the ricotta cheese into the soup, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir lightly to swirl some cheese throughout the soup while still keeping some intact for delicious cheesy bites.
7. Serve Up the Deliciousness:
Serve the soup hot, garnishing each bowl with fresh basil slices and extra grated Parmesan cheese for that extra flavor boost! Don’t forget to slice up some crusty bread for dipping—a perfect companion to your comforting bowl of soup.
This Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup is not only flavorful but also rich and satisfying—perfect for a cold evening. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground Italian sausage or beef with a plant-based substitute, or you can use extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for added flavor and texture. Just ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time! Just keep in mind that the noodles may absorb some of the broth as they sit. You can prepare up to the point of adding the noodles, refrigerate, and then cook the noodles freshly before serving for the best texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
You can freeze the Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup, but it’s best to do so without the noodles, as they can become mushy when thawed. Store the soup base in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, then cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
