Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops
There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm, hearty flavors of lasagna, but what if you could enjoy all that cheesy, savory goodness in a bowl? That’s exactly what Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops delivers—a soul-satisfying dish that combines the classic Italian lasagna ingredients into a rich, flavorful soup perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a little culinary hug. Imagine tender pieces of broken lasagna noodles swimming in a robust tomato and beef broth, accented by sweet bell peppers and aromatic herbs, all topped with creamy ricotta dollops and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners and a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why It’s My Go-To
I love this Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops because it’s the ultimate comfort food without the fuss of layering and baking a traditional lasagna. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights but still feels special enough to serve guests. The flavors are deep and rich, thanks to the slow-simmered broth and perfectly seasoned ground beef. The ricotta dollops add a creamy, luscious touch that elevates the entire bowl. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies. It’s hearty, satisfying, and just the right balance of cheesy and savory. If you’re a fan of dishes like Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups, this soup will quickly become a regular in your meal rotation.
Ingredient Rundown
- 1 pound ground beef – The protein base that brings heartiness and flavor; browned to perfection for the best texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté the veggies and brown the beef evenly while adding a subtle richness.
- 1 onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that aromatic punch that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – Offers a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch that complements the softness of the noodles.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – Forms the robust, tangy tomato base of the soup.
- 4 cups beef broth – Enriches the soup with savory depth; be sure to use a good-quality broth for maximum flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano – Provides that classic Italian herb aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a sweet, peppery note.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overpowering.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – The pasta element that makes this soup feel like lasagna in a bowl.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Dolloped on top for creamy, dreamy bites.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled in for sharp, nutty flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To perfectly balance every ingredient.
- Fresh basil for garnish – Adds brightness and a pop of color.
What’s in the Gear List
- Large pot or Dutch oven – For browning the beef and simmering the soup.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir and scrape the bottom of the pot.
- Knife and cutting board – For prepping the veggies.
- Measuring spoons and cups – To ensure the right balance of herbs and liquids.
- Ladle – For serving the soup with ease.
- Spoons or small ice cream scoop – To dollop ricotta cheese beautifully on top.
Cook Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops Like This
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything well. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Add the Lasagna Noodles
Drop the broken lasagna noodles into the simmering soup. Cook uncovered until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Turn off the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and add generous dollops of ricotta cheese on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a simple salad. For another comforting meal idea with ricotta, you might enjoy Baked Ziti With Ricotta for a baked pasta alternative.
Smart Substitutions
- Ground turkey or chicken – For a lighter protein option, swap out the beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetables – Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
- Gluten-free noodles – Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.
- Vegetable broth – Replace beef broth with vegetable broth if you prefer a milder base or want a lighter soup.
- Fresh herbs – If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use 1 tablespoon each instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
- Skipping the browning step: Browning the beef adds essential depth and flavor. Don’t rush this process.
- Overcooking the noodles: Broken lasagna noodles cook quickly; keep an eye on them to avoid mushy pasta.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.
- Adding ricotta too early: The ricotta should be dolloped on just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Best Ways to Store
Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops stores beautifully for meal prep or leftovers:
- Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Noodles will continue to soak up broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
- Ricotta dollops are best added fresh when serving, so store them separately in a small container.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup (without ricotta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Handy Q&A
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add hearty veggies like mushrooms and lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain a rich flavor.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Break the noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them toward the end of cooking. Cook just until tender. If you’re making leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them when serving.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes! The soup can be made a day in advance and reheated. Store ricotta separately and add fresh dollops when serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops?
This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or even a simple side of roasted vegetables. For more comforting soup ideas, check out this Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup.
Similar Recipes
- Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups – A delicious baked pasta alternative with a seasonal twist.
- Baked Ziti With Ricotta – Another cheesy, comforting pasta dish that’s easy to make.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup – A rich and creamy soup perfect for cooler days.
The Takeaway
Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops is a perfect blend of convenience and comfort, capturing all the flavors of classic lasagna in an easy-to-make, one-pot meal. The combination of tender noodles, savory beef broth, and creamy ricotta creates a bowl that’s both satisfying and soothing. It’s a recipe that brings warmth to the table and smiles to everyone who digs in. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a cozy solo dinner, this soup is a fantastic choice that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
This recipe proves that sometimes, the best comfort food comes in a humble bowl. Give it a try and savor every spoonful of this heartwarming Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops.
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Cozy Lasagna Soup with Ricotta Dollops
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything well. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Drop the broken lasagna noodles into the simmering soup. Cook uncovered until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Turn off the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and add generous dollops of ricotta cheese on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a simple salad.
Notes
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop rich flavor in the soup.
- Add ricotta cheese dollops just before serving to keep them creamy and fresh.
- Store leftover soup and ricotta separately for best texture when reheating.
- Customize by adding your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and vegetable broth for dietary substitutions.
