This Lasagna Soup with Creamy Alfredo is a luscious twist on the classic Italian favorite. Combining the rich flavors of lasagna with the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce, this soup is hearty, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Packed with ground meat, lasagna noodles, cheese, and a creamy broth, it’s an indulgent one-pot meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Meat and Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
For the Soup Base:
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (14 oz) jar of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Alfredo:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Noodles and Cheese:
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan
- Crusty bread for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Stir in the onion, garlic, and bell peppers (if using) and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, broth, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the soup.
- Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook gently, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Stir the Alfredo sauce into the soup pot, mixing well to create a creamy broth.
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella until melted.
- For extra creaminess, add dollops of ricotta cheese to each bowl before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and provide a richer flavor.
- Customize the Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of Alfredo sauce based on how rich you want the soup to be.
- Make It Ahead: The soup base (without the noodles and cream) can be made a day ahead. Add noodles and Alfredo sauce when reheating.
Why You’ll Love It
This Lasagna Soup with Creamy Alfredo is:
- Rich and Decadent: The Alfredo sauce adds a luxurious, creamy element to the classic lasagna flavors.
- One-Pot Wonder: All the goodness of lasagna with less effort and cleanup.
- Customizable: Easily adapted with your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses.
- Comforting: Perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd.