Comforting High-Protein Lasagna Soup for Weeknight Dinners

© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©

🍲 Comforting High-Protein Lasagna Soup for Weeknight Dinners

1. Introduction

If you’re craving the rich, cheesy goodness of lasagna but want a quicker, less cumbersome meal, then this lasagna soup is your new weeknight essential. This hearty dish blends the classic flavors of Italy—tomato, ground meat, and melty cheese—into a warm, spoonable soup packed with protein. It’s an easy lasagna recipe turned into a comforting bowl that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds.

Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a nourishing, satisfying meal, this lasagna soup combines convenience with all the delicious flavors you love in traditional lasagna. Plus, it’s customizable—add extra vegetables or spice it up with some red pepper flakes for a personal touch.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes — Perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
• One-pot wonder — Reduces cleanup and simplifies cooking.
• High in protein — Keeps you full longer, ideal for health-conscious eaters.
• Flexible ingredients — Adapt with preferred cheeses or pasta types.

3. Ingredient Notes

The magic of this lasagna soup lies in the quality and selection of your ingredients. Use T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set to ensure your ingredients cook evenly and without sticking. For the cheese, opt for a mix of ricotta and shredded mozzarella—these cheeses melt beautifully and create that signature creamy texture.

For the best flavor, choose high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, which are known for their sweet, less acidic taste. Ground beef or turkey adds protein, but for a leaner version, try ground chicken or plant-based grounds.

Herbs and spices matter, so fresh basil and oregano enhance the aroma and flavor complexity. Finally, a good quality broth—preferably homemade or low-sodium store-bought—serves as the flavorful base.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this lasagna soup easily, investing in the right kitchen tools makes a difference. For example, the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is versatile for optional crispy topping or side dishes. The KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer helps with prepping ingredients like cheese or mixing any components that require blending.

And if you love cooking with convenience, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer is fantastic for multitasking in your kitchen, especially if you want to serve some grilled bread alongside your soup.

5. How to Make Comforting High-Protein Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Meat

Begin by heating a splash of olive oil in your large pot. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent—around 2-3 minutes. Add your ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. At this point, your kitchen should fill with the savory aroma of browned meat and garlic.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Next, stir in canned diced tomatoes—crushed or chopped—and pour in your broth. Bring to a simmer. Expect a bubbling, fragrant stew that looks vibrant with the bits of tomato floating in the reddish broth. This is the heart of your lasagna soup, capturing all those rich Italian flavors.

Step 3: Incorporate Pasta and Cheese

Add your pasta—either broken lasagna noodles or mini penne—directly into the soup. Cook until al dente, usually around 10 minutes. Meanwhile, stir in dollops of ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy layer. Let the cheese melt into the hot broth for that authentic, indulgent flavor.

Step 4: Finish with Herbs and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil and oregano over the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. For a visual and flavor boost, serve with toasted garlic bread on the side—crafted with your Ninja Foodi or other handy tools. Garnish with extra mozzarella or parmesan if desired, then enjoy the hearty, cheesy comfort in each spoonful.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated cheese—Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent melting. Fresh cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
• Don’t overcook your pasta—Add it near the end so it remains tender but not mushy, ensuring the soup stays flavorful and not starchy.
• Salty broth is key—Adjust seasoning with salt after simmering, as concentrated flavors develop during cooking.
• Simmer gently—Keep the temperature low once the soup boils to allow flavors to meld without overcooking the pasta or cheese.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re vegetarian, substitute the ground meat with lentils or tempeh. For low-carb dieters, swap pasta for zucchini noodles and use low-sodium broth. Vegan options work well with plant-based cheeses and textured vegetable protein. Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition.

8. Storage & Reheating

This lasagna soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens. For best results, add fresh cheese or herbs upon reheating to revive its creamy richness.

9. FAQ

Can I freeze this lasagna soup?

Yes, it freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just note that cheese may alter texture slightly upon thawing, but it remains delicious.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the soup a day in advance to let flavors meld, then reheat on the stove. Add fresh cheese and herbs right before serving for maximum freshness.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like mini penne or broken lasagna noodles are perfect because they hold up well in soup. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, which may become mushy.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply swap traditional pasta for gluten-free alternatives, such as chickpea or rice-based pasta. Ensure broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

10. Conclusion

This comforting high-protein lasagna soup offers the cozy flavors of classic lasagna with the convenience and warmth of a hearty bowl of soup. It’s a versatile, quick, and nourishing dish perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, you can enjoy a bowl of cheesy, tomato-rich happiness anytime. Happy cooking!

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