Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup is a comforting and hearty dish that captures all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, savory broth. This recipe combines ground beef, Italian sausage, and lasagna noodles with a rich tomato base, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It's the perfect meal for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

1. Pour some olive oil into the flat griddle cooktop.
2. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spoon.
3. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.
4. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
5. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings

1. Put a pot on your Arteflame.  Transfer the meat to the pot and pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
2. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

1. While the soup is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Stir the cooked lasagna noodles into the soup.
2. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of the cheese mixture.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.

Tips

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and substitute the meat with diced mushrooms and zucchini.
• Spicy Variation: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup up to Step 3, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat and add the noodles before serving.

Conclusion

Lasagna soup is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish, offering a warm, comforting meal that's easy to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup will quickly become a favorite.

Variations

1. Chicken Lasagna Soup: Substitute ground beef and sausage with cooked shredded chicken.
2. Vegetable Lasagna Soup: Use a variety of vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms instead of meat.
3. Seafood Lasagna Soup: Add cooked shrimp and scallops for a seafood twist.
4. Cheesy Lasagna Soup: Increase the amount of cheese and stir in some cream for an extra creamy version.
5. Mexican Lasagna Soup: Add corn, black beans, and taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired flavor.

Pairings

• Garlic bread or a simple green salad
• A glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese
• Tiramisu or panna cotta for dessert