This Low-Carb Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines all the great flavors of lasagna, but it’s lighter without the noodles.
With delicious ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, you’ll want to scoop up every last bite! I often make extra to enjoy all week long. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is your protein base. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Onion and Garlic: They add depth to the soup. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. They won’t have the same rich flavor but will still add a nice touch.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes give texture to the soup. If you prefer fresh, use about 4-5 medium tomatoes instead. Just make sure to chop them up well!
Cottage Cheese or Ricotta: I love using cottage cheese for its texture, but ricotta adds a creamier vibe. Either works well—go with your preference or even a mix!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that melty goodness. If you need to, you can substitute with a low-fat cheese or dairy-free cheese for a healthier option.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Lasagna Soup?
To really bring out the flavors, pay attention when cooking the ground beef and onions. Here’s how to do it right:
- Brown the beef well to develop a nice crust. Don’t rush this step!
- Cook the onions until they’re soft and translucent. This adds sweetness.
- Let the soup simmer! Allowing it to cook for 20-25 minutes helps all the ingredients meld together.
And don’t forget to add the cheeses at the end—this helps keep them creamy and delicious instead of mixing them in too early!
Low-Carb Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This low-carb lasagna soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Meat:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your soup lean.
2. Adding Aromatics:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. This step fills your kitchen with lovely aromas!
3. Building the Soup Base:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. These ingredients will create a rich base for your soup.
4. Seasoning:
Add in the Italian seasoning, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Simmering:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to come together deliciously!
6. Creamy Finish:
Just before serving, mix in the cottage cheese or ricotta cheese. This step will add a lovely creaminess to the soup that mimics traditional lasagna.
7. Serving:
Now ladle the warm soup into bowls. Top each bowl with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra cheesy goodness.
8. Garnishing:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh basil on top and add a dash of freshly ground black pepper for the finishing touch.
9. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of your low-carb lasagna soup! It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly if it cooks faster than beef.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
You can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with diced mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth as well to maintain the flavor profile.
What Can I Use Instead of Cottage Cheese or Ricotta?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese or ricotta, you can use cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or even a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan take. These options will still give the soup a creamy texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Enjoy it for lunch or as a cozy dinner again!
