Mouthwatering One Pot Lasagna

This one pot lasagna soup brings all the cozy comfort of traditional lasagna into a simple, hearty bowl. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something rich and satisfying without the fuss of layered pasta. The blend of browned beef, tender noodles, and creamy cheeses creates a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

I first made this after craving lasagna but not wanting to spend hours in the kitchen. It quickly became a favorite for its convenience and flavor that truly hits the spot every time.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives the soup a rich meaty backbone. Choose fresh beef with good marbling for the best flavor.
• Garlic and onion: provide aromatic depth and sweetness when softened. Using fresh garlic adds brightness.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: enhance the savory notes and boost the flavor complexity.
• Dried basil and oregano: bring classic Italian herb flavor. Choose herbs that still smell fragrant for the best impact.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: balance and draw out flavors; freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and earthiness.
• Crushed tomatoes: create the soup’s tomatoey base. A quality tin with a vibrant red color indicates freshness.
• Chicken broth: adds savory umami and thins the soup to a perfect sipping consistency. Use low sodium to better control seasoning.
• Tomato paste: intensifies the tomato depth and thickens the broth. It is worth using canned paste for concentration.
• Lasagna noodles: broken into pieces cook quickly and absorb the broth flavors. Fresh or dried pasta may be used.
• Frozen chopped spinach: adds color, nutrition, and a mild earthiness that complements the meat.
• Heavy cream: finishes the soup with creaminess and a subtle richness without overpowering.
• Ricotta cheese, mozzarella slices, and grated parmesan: layered on top provide that classic gooey, cheesy lasagna finish.

Instructions

Build the Beef Base:

Place a large pot over medium high heat and add the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon. Allow bits of the beef to brown slightly for deeper flavor.

Drain away excess grease carefully to prevent the soup from becoming oily while keeping those browned bits.

Add Aromatics and Spices:

To the browned beef add the finely minced garlic and diced onion along with garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir together and reduce heat to medium low.

Cook slowly for about five minutes until the onion softens and you can smell the spices blooming, stirring often so garlic does not burn.

Build the Soup:

Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and tomato paste. Mix gently to combine all elements.

Break lasagna noodles into roughly two inch pieces and add them in. Increase heat to bring the pot to a boil, then immediately lower to a simmer and cover.

Simmer for ten minutes allowing noodles to soften and soak up flavors.

Finish with Greens and Cream:

Add frozen chopped spinach and heavy cream to the simmering soup. Cook uncovered for five more minutes until spinach is warmed through and soup has a creamy texture.

Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed to perfect the seasoning.

Serve with Cheese:

Place a mozzarella slice at the bottom of each serving bowl so the hot soup melts it beautifully. Ladle soup on top.

Add a dollop of ricotta cheese and grate parmesan if desired for a melty, cheesy finish reminiscent of classic lasagna.

My favorite part of this recipe is the combination of cheeses at the end. The melting mozzarella beneath the soup and dollops of ricotta on top create a multi texture experience that feels truly indulgent. It reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table craving warmth and comfort in each bite.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The noodles absorb broth as it sits so add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to loosen the soup. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop over medium low heat or in the microwave.

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace beef for different flavors. Spinach can be swapped with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green texture. Use half and half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version but it will be less creamy.

Serving Ideas

Serve this soup with crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich soup. A glass of Chianti or your favorite red pairs wonderfully, enhancing the Italian vibes.

This hearty one pot lasagna soup is a delicious way to enjoy classic flavors without the fuss. It comes together quickly and comforts every time.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the soup from becoming too oily?

After browning the ground beef, drain off excess grease from the pot. This helps keep the soup rich but not greasy.

→ Can I use different types of noodles in this dish?

Yes, broken lasagna noodles work best, but you can substitute with other pasta broken into similar sizes to cook evenly in the broth.

→ What cheeses work well for topping?

Melting mozzarella at the bottom followed by ricotta and optional parmesan adds classic creamy textures and layered flavors.

→ How do the spices enhance the dish?

Basil, oregano, garlic, and onion powders provide an aromatic foundation that complements the beef and tomato base beautifully.

→ Can I adjust the creaminess of the soup?

Yes, adding or reducing heavy cream helps control richness and smoothness according to your preference.