This Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup is a warm and cozy twist on traditional lasagna, packed with delicious flavors. You’ll love the creamy ricotta and fresh spinach swimming in a rich broth!
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I often add extra cheese on top for a gooey treat. You can’t go wrong with cheesy goodness! Just mix, simmer, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s oh-so-easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian version, try substituting with plant-based sausage or mushrooms.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are perfect, but you can use any pasta like pappardelle or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times based on the type of pasta you choose.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my favorite for its nice texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess to the soup. If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese is a great substitute. Just blend it a bit for a smoother texture!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Lasagna Soup?
The secret to delicious lasagna soup is layering flavors and cooking them well. Here’s how:
- Brown the sausage well; this caramelizes the meat and enhances its flavor.
- Cook the onions until soft to bring out their sweetness and add depth to the soup.
- Add the garlic just before the liquid to prevent it from burning and losing its flavor.
- When adding spices, let them cook for a minute to bloom their flavors in the oil.
- Adjust seasoning at the end. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish!
By following these tips, your lasagna soup will be packed with incredible flavor and comfort.
Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook. In just under 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal that combines all the flavors of lasagna in a delightful soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This step adds great flavor to the soup!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
3. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), along with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the soup starts to come together!
4. Add the Noodles:
Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Incorporate the Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it’s wilted, which should only take about 2 minutes. This adds a lovely freshness to the soup.
6. Mix in the Cheeses:
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella until melted and well combined, creating a creamy texture in the soup. It’s going to be rich and delicious!
7. Final Taste Check:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and a pop of color. You can also add a little extra ricotta or Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish.
Now, sit back and enjoy this comforting, cheesy lasagna soup that brings all the classic flavors of lasagna into a delightful and easy-to-make soup form!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the noodles may soften when reheating, so they are best added fresh if possible.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes, you can mix and match cheeses! Try using feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just ensure that the total amount of cheese is about 2 cups for a creamy texture.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or toasted crusty bread to make it a complete meal!
