30-Minute One-Pot Lasagna Soup: Your Ultimate Easy & Comforting Weeknight Meal

This incredible 30-minute, one-pot Lasagna Soup recipe brings all the rich, cheesy, and deeply comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into a convenient and deeply satisfying bowl. It’s not only quick to prepare but also freezer-friendly, and versatile enough to be made in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Say goodbye to the fuss of layering and hello to pure comfort in a bowl!

There are certain dishes that just speak to your soul, and for many, classic lasagna is at the top of that list. That delightful combination of rich meat sauce, tender pasta, and creamy, melted cheese is hard to beat. However, let’s be honest: making a traditional lasagna from scratch can be quite an undertaking, often involving multiple pots, meticulous layering, and a significant time commitment. That’s where this ingenious lasagna soup comes in! It captures every beloved essence of lasagna, transforming it into a hearty, savory soup that’s incredibly simple to make and ready to enjoy in just about half an hour. It’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you crave home-cooked comfort without the culinary marathon.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This One-Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves lasagna but dreads the effort. Here’s why this 30-minute wonder will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

• Incredibly Quick and Easy: Forget hours in the kitchen! This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is an absolute breeze, freeing up more of your precious time.
• Meal Prep Dream: Freezer-Friendly: Planning ahead has never been simpler. This lasagna soup is wonderfully freezer-friendly, making it perfect for preparing in advance. Cook a big batch, portion it out, and you’ll have delicious, homemade meals ready to go for busy days, or for enjoying healthy leftovers without any extra work.
• Pure Comfort in a Bowl: Experience all the rich, savory, and cheesy goodness of your favorite lasagna, but in a comforting, spoonable form. Each spoonful delivers that familiar blend of seasoned ground meat, rich marinara, tender pasta, and luscious cheese, creating a truly satisfying and soul-warming experience.

Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Lasagna Soup

Crafting the perfect lasagna soup starts with high-quality ingredients, but don’t hesitate to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and how you can adapt it:

• Extra Lean Ground Beef – This forms the hearty base of our soup. Using extra lean helps reduce excess fat, keeping the soup lighter. If you’re looking to further cut down on calories or prefer a different protein, ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent, leaner alternatives that absorb the flavors beautifully. For an extra kick, consider using Italian sausage (casings removed and crumbled) for a richer, more spiced flavor.
• Onions – A foundational aromatic! Any type of onion will work wonders here, from yellow to white, red, or even delicate shallots. They provide a sweet and savory depth that is crucial to the soup’s flavor profile. Dice them finely for even cooking and distribution throughout the soup.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic offers the most vibrant and pungent flavor, which is highly recommended for this recipe. Minced garlic infuses the soup with an undeniable richness. While garlic powder or a garlic-based pasta sauce could be used in a pinch, fresh garlic truly elevates the taste.
• Italian Seasoning – This blend of herbs is key to achieving that authentic Italian flavor. You can easily use a high-quality store-bought blend for convenience, or opt for a homemade Italian seasoning if you prefer a custom mix. If you don’t have it, a combination of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary will also work.
• Marinara Sauce – The marinara sauce is the backbone of the soup’s rich, tomatoey goodness. Any good quality jarred pasta sauce will do the trick. Choose one that you enjoy on its own, as its flavor will shine through. You can also use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree and add your own seasonings for a more homemade touch.
• Beef Broth – This adds significant depth and savory flavor to the soup base, replicating the hearty essence of lasagna. For alternatives, vegetable broth or chicken broth can also be used, though they will subtly change the overall flavor profile. Ensure you choose a low-sodium variety if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Pasta – For an authentic “lasagna” look and feel in your soup, I highly recommend mafalda pasta, with its ruffled edges. Alternatively, simply break up traditional lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces. Rotini, penne, or even farfalle (bow-tie pasta) are also great choices that will hold up well in the soup.
• Ricotta Cheese – Used primarily as a creamy, decadent topping, much like the cheese layer in traditional lasagna. If you don’t have any on hand, or prefer a lighter option, feel free to omit it. For an even richer topping, you could mix a little Parmesan cheese into the ricotta.
• Mozzarella Cheese – This is essential for that classic gooey, melted cheese pull. While mozzarella is traditional, other melting cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would work. Keep in mind that cheddar or Swiss will impart a slightly different, though still delicious, flavor profile.
• Parsley – Fresh parsley is used for a vibrant garnish, adding a touch of freshness and color. If you’re looking to introduce more fresh herbs, basil or oregano would also be fantastic additions, complementing the Italian flavors beautifully.

How to Make This Easy One-Pot Lasagna Soup

Making this hearty lasagna soup is surprisingly straightforward, and the magic truly happens in just one pot! Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:

Step 1: Brown the ground beef for flavor.

Begin by placing your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the extra lean ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Sauté the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and cooked through, usually about 5 minutes. This browning step is crucial as it develops deep, rich flavors that will form the backbone of your soup. Once browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the pot to keep your soup from being greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic to build aromatics.

With the ground beef browned and fat drained (if necessary), add the diced onions and minced garlic to the same pot. Sauté these aromatics for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its wonderfully fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.

Step 3: Combine all ingredients and simmer until pasta is tender.

Now it’s time to bring the soup to life! Add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, marinara sauce, beef broth, and your chosen pasta (mafalda or broken lasagna noodles) to the pot. Give everything a good stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Step 4: Serve and savor your delicious lasagna soup!

Once the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, your lasagna soup is ready to be served. Ladle generous portions into individual bowls. For that authentic lasagna experience, sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each serving, allowing it to melt into gooey perfection. Add a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese for an extra layer of richness and texture. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, adding a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, homemade meal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lasagna Soup

Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your lasagna soup is a resounding success:

What kind of pasta is best for lasagna soup?

For an authentic visual and textural experience that truly mimics traditional lasagna, I personally love using mafalda pasta due to its ruffled edges. Alternatively, breaking up classic lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces works wonderfully. However, the beauty of soup is its flexibility! Almost any medium-sized pasta shape will work well, such as rotini, penne, or even small shells. Just remember that mafalda and broken lasagna noodles will give you that true “lasagna” feel in every spoonful.

Can I cook the pasta directly in the soup?

Absolutely, and it’s one of the best features of this one-pot recipe! Cooking the pasta directly in the soup allows it to absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth and marinara, resulting in incredibly flavorful noodles. Plus, it means fewer dishes to wash, which is always a win. However, if you plan on freezing a large batch of the soup, it’s generally best to cook the pasta separately and add it when serving, as pasta cooked directly in the soup can become mushy or absorb too much liquid upon thawing and reheating.

Can I make lasagna soup in the slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, this lasagna soup is wonderfully adaptable to different cooking methods! It’s perfect for setting and forgetting in a slow cooker or for a quick pressure-cooked meal in the Instant Pot.

• For the Slow Cooker: First, brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic in a separate skillet (or directly in your slow cooker if it has a sauté function). Transfer to the slow cooker along with the marinara sauce, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking time to ensure it cooks through without becoming mushy.
• For the Instant Pot: Use the “Sauté” function to brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic directly in the pot. Once browned, add the marinara sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and pasta (ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid). Secure the lid and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Perform a quick release of pressure. Stir well and serve with cheeses and herbs. Check out my dedicated Crockpot Lasagna Soup recipe for more detailed instructions!

What if my soup is too thick or too thin?

The consistency of your soup can easily be adjusted. If your soup is too thick, simply add a splash more beef or vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate, or you can stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken it slightly and deepen the flavor. The pasta will also continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits.

What to Serve with Your Comforting Lasagna Soup

This lasagna soup is a meal in itself, packed with meat, pasta, and rich flavors. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner or add some extra texture, here are some perfect pairing ideas:

• Garlic Bread or Fresh Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious, rich broth. A warm, crusty baguette or homemade garlic bread is an ideal companion.
• Bruschetta: Light and flavorful, bruschetta offers a delightful textural contrast with its crisp bread and fresh tomato topping.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a vibrant green salad, such as my Brussels sprouts salad, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich soup.
• Steamed Vegetables: For an extra boost of greens, consider serving a side of steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or delicate air fryer asparagus.

Storing, Reheating, and Freezing Tips for Lasagna Soup

This lasagna soup is excellent for making ahead or enjoying as leftovers, especially with these storage tips:

Storing: Any leftover lasagna soup can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Ensure it has cooled completely before transferring it to the fridge to maintain freshness and safety.

Reheating: To reheat individual portions, simply warm them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated evenly. For larger quantities, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until simmering and hot all the way through. You may want to add a splash of extra broth if the soup has thickened significantly overnight.

Freezing: This soup is a fantastic candidate for freezing, especially for future meal prep! For best results and to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, I highly recommend freezing the soup *without the noodles*. Prepare the soup as directed, omitting the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating from Frozen: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen soup, you have a couple of options. You can reheat it directly from frozen in the microwave for 6-8 minutes, stirring well at the halfway point, or gently warm it on the stovetop over low to medium heat until it’s fully defrosted and simmering. Once hot, then cook fresh pasta separately and stir it into the reheated soup just before serving. This ensures the pasta has the perfect texture.

Recommended Meal Prep Tools

To make your lasagna soup experience even smoother and more efficient, consider these helpful kitchen tools, especially if you’re embracing meal prepping:

• Order the same mafalda pasta I use in this recipe for that authentic lasagna noodle look and texture.
• Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on transforming this delicious soup into your organized weekly lunches. They’re perfect for portioning and reheating.
• I get all my high-quality, grass-fed ground beef from Butcher Box, conveniently delivered frozen right to my doorstep, ensuring fresh ingredients every time.
• For easy portioning and freezing, consider investing in Souper Cubes. They allow you to freeze individual portions of this soup (without the noodles) for up to 3 months, making healthy meals accessible in an instant.