The kitchen filled with warmth last night as I stirred a pot of my Hearty One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta. The aroma of savory ground beef mingled with the rich tang of tomatoes, instantly transporting me to cozy family gatherings. This creative twist on comfort food combines the beloved flavors of lasagna in a delightful soup format that’s not only a quick meal but also a major crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve up a satisfying bowl that’s brimming with cheesy goodness and tender pasta. Imagine digging into a bowl that offers all the heartiness of lasagna yet feels like a warm hug in a dish. Who wouldn’t love that? Ready to dive into this comforting recipe? Let’s get started!
Why is Lasagna Soup So Irresistible?
Comforting and Familiar: This soup brings the essence of lasagna into a warm, inviting bowl, making it perfect for families.
Quick Prep Time: In just around 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal—ideal for busy evenings when you crave something hearty.
One-Pot Wonder: Save on dishes with this one-pot recipe, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness without the hassle of extensive clean-up.
Cheesy Indulgence: With ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, each spoonful is a delightful swirl of creamy goodness that will please cheese lovers.
Customizable Flavors: Whether you prefer ground turkey or want to sneak in veggies like spinach, this recipe is versatile to suit any taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, the rich flavors and heartwarming aroma will have everyone coming back for more! Enjoy this alongside a side of Garlic Shrimp Pasta for an unforgettable meal.
Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta Ingredients
For the Soup
• Ground Beef – Adds protein and richness; opt for 80/20 for optimal flavor.
• Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or white varieties work well.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
• Diced Tomatoes (canned) – Adds juiciness and acidity; choose those with juices included for better texture.
• Tomato Sauce or Purée – Gives a smooth base for the soup; substitute with crushed tomatoes if needed.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor; can be omitted for a lighter taste.
• Chicken Stock – Provides liquid and additional flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Italian Herb Blend – Offers aromatic, traditional flavor; alternatively, use individual dried herbs like basil and oregano.
• Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste, especially considering sodium levels in broth and tomatoes.
• Bow Tie Pasta – Acts as the soup’s heart and texture; use any pasta shape, but add it late to prevent mushiness.
For the Cheesy Goodness
• Ricotta Cheese – Introduces creaminess; stir in when serving to maintain texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for extra cheesiness; fresh mozzarella can enhance flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – Provides a nutty flavor; optional for garnishing.
For the Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Offers a bright finish and color; can be substituted with basil.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a 4.5-quart soup pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high temperature. Once the oil shimmers, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning.
Step 2: Drain and Season
After the beef is cooked through, carefully drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy. Sprinkle in sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, along with the Italian herb blend, allowing the flavors to meld together for a minute or two in the still-warm pot.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and tomato paste for a rich, flavorful base. Pour in the chicken stock, which enhances the soup’s depth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring well to combine all components evenly.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Once boiling, gently fold in the uncooked bow tie pasta. Reduce the heat to a medium simmer and cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on the texture as it cooks to ensure a perfect bite.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency
If the soup appears too thick, add additional chicken stock or water by the tablespoon to reach your desired consistency. Allow it to simmer gently while making these adjustments, ensuring the flavors remain rich and concentrated.
Step 6: Incorporate the Cheeses
Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the creamy ricotta cheese for delightful richness or serve it alongside so each person can add their desired amount. Meanwhile, sprinkle in shredded mozzarella for that melty goodness that coats the soup beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle your hearty lasagna soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of cheesy goodness. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Hearty One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta!
What to Serve with Hearty One-Pot Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a complete meal that beautifully complements this flavorful soup.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, enhancing each bite with garlicky goodness.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast and lightness, balancing the hearty nature of the lasagna soup perfectly.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are delightful for sopping up the cheesy soup, making each mouthful even more satisfying.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies bring a delightful crunch and additional nutrition, harmonizing with the comforting elements of the soup.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites are a fun way to introduce extra cheese flavor without overshadowing the soup’s creamy texture.
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Italian White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio enhances the savory notes of the soup, making it an ideal pairing for a cozy dinner.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Follow up with these classic treats for a delightful sweet finish, reminding everyone of cherished family moments.
Let these options fulfill your cravings and create a memorable mealtime experience that leaves everyone smiling!
Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative with your lasagna soup, adding your personal touch to enhance the flavors and textures!
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Lean & Healthy: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still packs a punch of flavor. With less fat, you’ll enjoy a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing taste.
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Veggie Boost: Add in fresh spinach or diced zucchini to sneak in some greens. Not only does this increase the nutritional value, but it also brings a pop of color that makes your soup even more appealing.
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Pasta Party: Change up the pasta by using rotini or even small shell pasta instead of bow tie. The shape may alter the bite, but it will create a delightful twist on the classic comfort you’ve come to love.
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Cheesy Explosion: For those who adore cheese, mix in some ricotta directly into the pot for added creaminess, then serve with extra mozzarella on top. You’ll find that cheesy goodness in every delicious spoonful.
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Extra Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a spicy kick. If you love the heat, this will elevate your dish, making it a memorable experience.
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Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas and use coconut milk instead of broth to create a creamy base for a vegan lasagna soup that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
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Savory Swap: Experiment with herbs by incorporating fresh basil, thyme, or even Italian sausage for a flavor boost that adds depth and complexity to every savory bite.
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Perfect Pairings: Serve this soup with crusty garlic bread or a side of Ditalini Pasta Salad to enhance your meal. The contrast of textures will elevate this comforting bowl of love!
Delight in making your lasagna soup uniquely yours and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Storage Tips for Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the soup without pasta for up to 3 months; for best texture, add fresh pasta upon reheating to maintain its delightful bite.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of chicken stock if needed to achieve the desired consistency before serving.
Bulk Cooking: This lasagna soup is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comforting flavors throughout the week with proper storage.
Expert Tips for Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta
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Timing is Key: Add pasta in the last 10-12 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy and maintaining a delightful texture.
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Enhance the Beef: Be sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients for deep, savory flavor that enriches your lasagna soup.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings just before serving, tasting as you add salt and pepper to ensure a perfectly balanced flavor profile, considering the saltiness of canned tomatoes.
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Creamy Ricotta Touch: For a rich texture, incorporate ricotta directly into the bowls when serving, allowing each person to customize their creamy delight as they like.
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Rest and Reheat: Keep leftovers moist by adding a splash of chicken stock when reheating to maintain the luscious consistency of your lasagna soup.
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Yummy Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix it up! Ground turkey or chicken provides a lighter version, while sneaking in vegetables like spinach adds nutrition and color to your hearty meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (excluding the pasta and cheeses) up to 24 hours ahead. Simply cook all the ingredients up until the point of adding the bow tie pasta, let it cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, bring the soup to a simmer on the stove, add the pasta, and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the ricotta and mozzarella just before serving to ensure maximum creaminess. This method not only saves time but also helps the flavors meld beautifully, making the soup just as delicious when prepared in advance!
Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for this recipe?
For optimal flavor, I recommend using ground beef with a ratio of 80/20, where 80% is meat and 20% is fat. This blend provides a rich and juicy meatiness essential to enhancing the soup’s overall taste. If you prefer a leaner option, 85/15 also works well; just add a touch of olive oil while cooking to prevent dryness while retaining that scrumptious flavor!
What is the best method for storing leftover lasagna soup?
Absolutely! Store your lasagna soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the creamy texture intact when reheating, just add a splash of chicken stock to loosen up the soup and bring back that delicious creaminess we love. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave!
Can I freeze lasagna soup, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze this hearty lasagna soup! I recommend freezing it without the pasta for the best results. First, let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop and cook fresh pasta separately to add just before serving for the perfect texture.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find that your lasagna soup has thickened more than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a small amount of water or broth—about a tablespoon at a time—and stir well over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Keep in mind that the flavors will intensify as you add more liquid, so taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Very much so! To create a vegetarian version of this lasagna soup, substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat, and use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock. For a vegan option, you can opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives for ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This way, you can still enjoy all those comforting flavors while adhering to dietary preferences!
Cozy Lasagna Soup with Bow Tie Pasta for the Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 4.5-quart soup pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high temperature. Once the oil shimmers, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
- After the beef is cooked through, carefully drain any excess fat. Sprinkle in sea salt and black pepper to taste, along with the Italian herb blend, allowing the flavors to meld together for a minute.
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring well to combine.
- Once boiling, gently fold in the uncooked bow tie pasta. Reduce the heat to a medium simmer and cook for about 10–15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- If the soup appears too thick, add additional chicken stock or water by the tablespoon to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the pasta is al dente, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese or serve it alongside. Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.
