All the comfort of classic lasagna — in a bowl that builds muscle while it satisfies cravings!
Packed with ground beef, three types of cheese, and rich tomato flavor, this hearty soup delivers a protein punch in every spoonful.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Serves: 6–8 bowls
Category: Soup / Comfort Food
Diet: High Protein, Family-Friendly
Ingredients
- 1 lb lasagna noodles, broken into fourths
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 10 oz onion, finely chopped (about 1 large)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (~8 oz total)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp dried parsley
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp crushed red pepper (optional, for spice)
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onions. Cook until meat is nearly browned and onions turn translucent.
2. Add Garlic & Tomato Paste:
Stir in minced garlic; cook 1 minute. Add tomato paste; cook another 2 minutes for rich, deep flavor.
3. Season It Up:
Add all dried herbs, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir to coat the meat evenly.
4. Build the Soup Base:
Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, and heavy cream. Mix well, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Add the Noodles:
Once boiling, uncover and stir in broken lasagna noodles. Boil uncovered until noodles are al dente.
6. Simmer:
Reduce heat and let the soup simmer gently. Add fresh basil near the end.
7. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, and a pinch of salt & pepper. Roll into small balls.
8. Add Cheese Balls:
Turn off heat. Drop the cheese balls gently into the hot soup — they’ll soften perfectly without falling apart.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle into bowls, sprinkle extra basil or Parmesan, and enjoy pure comfort!
Tips & Variations
- Lighter version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Vegetarian: Skip the meat and use lentils or mushrooms for protein.
- Creamier: Add a touch more heavy cream or shredded mozzarella.
- Spicy: Don’t skip that crushed red pepper kick!
Storage
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Store the cheese balls separately for best texture.
- Reheat on low heat to avoid overcooking the noodles.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You’ll Love It
Every spoonful feels like a warm hug — rich tomato broth, hearty beef, tender noodles, and melty cheese all in one bite. It’s your favorite lasagna, but way easier to make (and even cozier to eat).
