Craving the rich comfort of homemade lasagna but not the long hours in the kitchen? This one pot lasagna soup gives you the same cheesy, savory flavors in a fraction of the time. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, family friendly dinner ready to serve.
This recipe keeps things simple without losing any of the classic lasagna taste. Everything cooks together in a single pot, which means less mess and quick cleanup. It is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without the hassle.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
- One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single pot which means quick prep and easy cleanup.
- Ready in 30 Minutes: A hearty meal that delivers comfort and flavor in less time than traditional lasagna.
- Classic Lasagna Taste: This soup captures the rich tomato base, tender pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheeses you expect from a baked lasagna.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Store it for the week or freeze it for later. The flavors deepen with time making leftovers even more satisfying.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Ensuring you get enough protein in your diet can help to support healthy immune function and prevent muscles from wasting away.” Carla Prado, PhD, Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science, University of Alberta
Ingredients Needed for One Pot Lasagna Soup
To make this flavorful soup, gather the following ingredients:
For the Base
- 1 pound lean ground beef or half Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Sauce and Broth
- 1 jar (24 oz) Prego Traditional Italian Sauce
- 8 to 10 cups low sodium chicken broth, divided
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 whole bay leaf
Pasta
- 10 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into 1 to 2 inch pieces
Optional Creaminess
- ½ cup heavy cream, optional for a richer texture
Cheese Garnish
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Ricotta cheese
Easy Substitutions and Variations for One Pot Lasagna Soup
For a Different Protein
Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Italian sausage also works well if you enjoy extra seasoning and a richer flavor.
To Make it Vegetarian
Leave out the meat and add vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian version.
Pasta Alternatives
If you do not have lasagna noodles on hand, you can use rotini, cavatappi, or small pasta shells. These shapes hold up well in soup and provide a similar bite.
For a Creamier Soup
Add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking to create a silky texture. Some home cooks prefer using cottage cheese instead of ricotta to increase protein while keeping the soup smooth and filling.
How to Make One Pot Lasagna Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare a warm and comforting pot of lasagna soup:
- Brown the Meat and Onions
Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion becomes soft. This step builds the flavor base. - Add Garlic and Spice
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. - Build the Sauce
Pour in the Italian sauce, six cups of chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Add the bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients. - Add the Pasta
Stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta becomes tender. - Adjust the Consistency
Remove the bay leaf. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream. Add two to four more cups of broth until the soup reaches your desired thickness. - Serve with Cheese
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. The heat from the soup will melt the cheeses and create that classic lasagna flavor in every spoonful.
One Pot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion becomes soft.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the Italian sauce, 6 cups of chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and all seasonings including bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the optional heavy cream. Add more broth if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Ladle into bowls and top each serving with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 980mg | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Protein: 28g Nutrition Disclaimer Nutritional information is provided as an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For the most accurate results, calculate nutrition values using your preferred calculator and the exact ingredients in your recipe.What You’ll Need
★ large Dutch oven
★ Professional Cheese Grater
★ Glass Measuring Cups Set
Slow Cooker Instructions for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Making lasagna soup in a slow cooker is easy and allows the flavors to develop while you go about your day.
- Brown the ground beef or sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked meat to the slow cooker. Add the onion, garlic, Italian sauce, six cups of chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, dried herbs, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. This prevents them from becoming too soft.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Stir in heavy cream if desired, then adjust the thickness with extra broth if needed.
- Serve hot and top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta for the full lasagna flavor experience.
Instant Pot Instructions for One Pot Lasagna Soup
Using the Instant Pot makes this recipe even faster and more convenient.
- Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add the ground beef or sausage with the diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion softens.
- Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Italian sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, dried herbs, chicken broth, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
- Break the lasagna noodles into small pieces and add them to the pot. Mix gently to distribute them evenly.
- Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on HIGH for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time ends, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully remove the lid.
- Discard the bay leaf and stir in heavy cream if you want a creamier texture. Adjust thickness with extra broth as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for that classic lasagna taste.
Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Lasagna Soup
- Brown the Meat Well: Take the time to sear the meat until it develops a golden crust. This step creates a richer flavor foundation for the soup.
- Toast the Tomato Paste: Stir the tomato paste into the pot and let it cook for about a minute before adding liquids. This removes the raw taste and deepens the flavor.
- Use Low Sodium Broth: Starting with low sodium broth gives you control over the final seasoning. You can always add more salt to taste.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Stop cooking the pasta when it is just tender. It will continue to soften in the hot soup even after the heat is turned off.
- Finish with Fresh Cheese: Adding the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan right before serving gives you the classic lasagna taste in every spoonful.
What to Serve with One Pot Lasagna Soup
This hearty soup pairs well with a few simple sides that round out the meal.
- Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf brushed with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens balances the richness of the soup.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make a classic side for Italian style meals.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil add color and nutrition to your table.
With these sides, your one pot lasagna soup becomes a complete and satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating One Pot Lasagna Soup
To Store: Place leftover soup in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to blend, making it taste even better the next day.
To Freeze: This soup freezes very well for up to three months. For the best results, freeze the soup without the pasta. Cook fresh noodles separately and add them when reheating. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft.
To Reheat: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. If it has thickened in storage, add a splash of broth to reach the right consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quicker option.
With these storage tips, you can enjoy one pot lasagna soup anytime without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)y
What pasta is best for lasagna soup?
Traditional lasagna noodles broken into smaller pieces give the soup its authentic texture. If you do not have them, short pasta like rotini, shells, or cavatappi works well too.
How do I keep the noodles from getting soggy?
Cook the pasta until it is just al dente. Remember that it will continue to soften as it sits in the hot broth. For the best texture, store the soup and pasta separately if you plan to save leftovers.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, one pot lasagna soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare the soup without the pasta, then cook and add fresh noodles when you reheat it. This keeps the pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely. Skip the meat and use mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach as a substitute. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. For a vegan option, use dairy free cheeses or leave out the cheese garnish.
Is this recipe freezer friendly?
Yes, it freezes well for up to three months. Always freeze without the pasta for the best results. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to preserve the texture.
Medical Disclaimer for One Pot Lasagna Soup
The information in this recipe and article is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from your physician or another qualified health provider if you have questions about a medical condition, dietary changes, or nutritional needs. Never ignore professional medical advice because of something you read here.
Final Thoughts
One pot lasagna soup is the perfect way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the time and effort of layering and baking. In just thirty minutes, you get a comforting meal filled with savory meat, tender pasta, and creamy cheese that the whole family will love.
This recipe works well for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy dinners at home. You can also adapt it with different proteins, pasta shapes, or vegetarian options to suit your taste.
If you try this one pot lasagna soup, leave a comment below and give it a star rating to share your experience. We would love to know what variations you tried. Do not forget to share this recipe with friends and family on Pinterest and Facebook so they can enjoy it too.
High-Protein Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Advocate with over a decade of experience.
My human-first approach blends science-backed guidance with real-life empathy, shaped by my own journey through fatigue and muscle loss. Today, I help people reclaim strength, energy, and confidence through high-protein nutrition that’s both practical and empowering.
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
2 thoughts on “One Pot Lasagna Soup”