Name: Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound Italian sausage; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 28 ounces crushed tomatoes; 6 cups beef broth; 12 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups spinach, fresh; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

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Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef for Cozy Nights

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Sandra J.

Wednesday, February 18

Introduction to Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Why choose soup for a satisfying meal?

Soup has a unique ability to warm both the body and spirit, making it a comforting choice for any day of the week. It’s not just about the texture; it’s the way flavors blend and merge, creating a delicious harmony in every bowl. As a busy young professional, you’re probably seeking meals that are not only quick to prepare but also hearty enough to leave you feeling satisfied. According to the American Heart Association, incorporating meals that are high in vegetables and lean proteins can help maintain your energy levels throughout the day.

The appeal of homemade lasagna in soup form

Now, imagine taking all the beloved components of traditional lasagna—savory sausage, hearty ground beef, rich marinara, and gooey cheese—and transforming them into a comforting soup. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef. This delightfully easy recipe combines the flavors you love from lasagna into a steaming bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights.

The beauty of lasagna soup is its versatility. It allows you to customize the recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. Want to make it gluten-free? Just swap the pasta with gluten-free alternatives. Do you prefer extra veggies? Toss in some spinach or zucchini—it’s all up to you!

Why you’ll love making this recipe

Quick to Prepare: This soup can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when time is short.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that?
Great for Leftovers: It reheats well, preserving all those delicious flavors, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

So, why not give this Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef a try? You’ll get all the satisfaction of a traditional lasagna in a cozy, slurp-worthy soup. Dive into the recipe and see just how effortless and rewarding home-cooked meals can be! For more inspiration, check out this resourceful guide on easy soup recipes to keep your dinner rotations exciting.

Ingredients for Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Essential ingredients for a hearty soup

Preparing a delicious Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef requires a few key ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: For that classic meaty flavor.
Italian sausage: Goes great with beef and adds a spicy kick.
Onion and garlic: These aromatics lay the foundation for savory goodness.
Canned tomatoes: Choose crushed tomatoes for a rich base.
Chicken broth: Use homemade or low-sodium store-bought as a flavorful liquid.
Lasagna noodles: Break them into smaller pieces for easy eating.
Italian herbs: Think basil, oregano, and thyme for that authentic taste.
Cheese: A mix of ricotta and mozzarella adds creaminess and melts beautifully.

Recommended brands and types for optimal flavor

When shopping, consider using organic ground beef and Italian sausage for a fresher taste. Brands like Applegate for sausage and Grass Fed Beef can elevate your meal. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, which are renowned for their sweetness. For a tighter budget, Hunt’s crushed tomatoes are another solid option. Finally, don’t shy away from local cheese makers for the freshest ricotta and mozzarella. They enhance your Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef not just in flavor but also in texture.

By choosing these quality ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a winter-warming experience in no time! If you want to explore more about the benefits of using high-quality ingredients, check out Healthline’s guide to organic foods.

Preparing Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Lasagna is a classic comfort food that everyone seems to love. However, the time and effort it takes to layer those noodles can sometimes feel like too much for a busy weeknight. That’s where this Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef comes in! It captures all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna but in a wonderfully easy-to-make soup form. Let’s break down the process step by step, so you can whip this up in no time!

Sautéing the meats

Start with the best part—cooking the meats! In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Then, toss in your sausage (removing the casings beforehand) and ground beef. If you’re wondering why this combination works so well, it’s because the sausage brings a savory, spiced flavor that really elevates the dish.

Use about 1 pound of each.
Sauté until everything is browned and cooked through, which should take around 5-7 minutes.

Don’t forget to break up the meat as it cooks so that it’s nice and crumbly! While this is happening, keep an eye out for any moisture; if there’s excess grease, you might want to drain it off.

Cooking the aromatics

Once your meats are looking deliciously brown, it’s time to add some flavor boosters. Stir in chopped onions (1 medium onion works great) and minced garlic (around 3 cloves). The smell will be heavenly! Cook these aromatics for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened.

This step is crucial—use fresh garlic if you can. It genuinely makes a difference in flavor!

For a little extra depth, consider adding some diced bell peppers or grated carrots. Get creative based on what you have available!

Adding the liquids and spices

Now for the magic part—adding in your liquids and spices! Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and a 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Season with oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Use about 1 teaspoon of each herb.
Adjust spices to your taste; if you love basil, go ahead and add a bit more!

Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Incorporating the lasagna noodles

The next step is where this soup gets its lasagna vibe—adding the noodles! You can break up about 8 ounces of lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces, and toss them directly into the pot.

An alternative is to use gluten-free noodles if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions.

Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the noodles are tender. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking!

Mixing in the fresh greens

Ready for a pop of color and health? Stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh greens like spinach or kale right at the end. These will wilt nicely and add a nutritional boost to your Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef.

Fresh herbs like parsley can also be added here for that extra layer of flavor.

Preparing the cheesy topping

As the soup simmers, it’s the perfect time to prepare the cheesy topping. Mix ricotta cheese with a bit of parmesan and mozzarella in a bowl. This blend is the finishing touch that brings the lasagna flavor home.

Don’t skimp on cheese—add more if it makes your heart sing!

Serving the soup

Your soup is finally ready! When serving, top each bowl with a generous scoop of your cheesy mixture, letting it melt into the soup. This rich, comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, this Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef is bound to become a new favorite. Grab a slice of crusty bread, and dig in!

Don’t forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it online—your friends will definitely want to know how you created this culinary delight!

Variations on Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Creating a delightful bowl of Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef is just the beginning. Let’s explore some fun variations to keep your dinners exciting!

A Vegetarian Version of Lasagna Soup

If you’re looking to lighten things up or cater to veggie lovers, try a vegetarian twist! You can replace the sausage and ground beef with a medley of mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. The earthy flavors of these vegetables complement the rich tomato base beautifully. For added protein, consider using lentils or chickpeas. A great option is to check out Nutrition.gov for additional nutritious ideas!

Gluten-Free Noodle Options

For those avoiding gluten, there are plenty of alternatives. Use gluten-free pasta shapes like zoodles (zucchini noodles) or quinoa-based noodles, which hold up rather well in the soup. If you’re keen on store-bought options, look for lentil or chickpea pasta that’s high in protein and fiber. This ensures you can still enjoy that comforting lasagna flavor without the gluten, satisfying both taste and dietary needs.

Cheese Alternatives for Dietary Preferences

Love the cheesy goodness of lasagna but avoiding dairy? No problem! Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and is packed with B vitamins. Another option is to use coconut or almond-based cheese alternatives, which melt nicely into the soup. If you still want the classic ricotta vibe, blend soaked cashews with lemon juice for a rich, creamy texture.

Combining these variations allows you to create your perfect bowl of Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef, tailored to any dietary preference. Cooking should be fun and inclusive, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

Cooking tips and notes for Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Enhancing flavors with extra spices

To elevate the Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef, consider adding a dash of Italian herbs like oregano or basil for that classic lasagna taste. Some crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, perfect for those who enjoy a little kick. Freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving also add a fantastic finish. Feel free to experiment—cooking should be fun!

Preventing overcooked noodles

A common pitfall in creating the Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef is overcooked noodles. To prevent this, try adding the pasta to the pot just before serving. This way, the noodles stay al dente and won’t become mushy in the broth. If you plan to have leftovers, you might want to cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl when serving. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

For more insights on pasta cooking techniques, check out these helpful tips on pasta.

Serving Suggestions for Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Best Side Dishes for a Complete Meal

To elevate your Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef into a delightful feast, consider pairing it with some complementary side dishes. Here are a few favorites:

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, buttery garlic bread perfectly complements the soup’s flavors. You can also try a healthier option with whole-grain bread or even focaccia.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a tangy Caesar dressing create a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Plus, it’s easy to whip up!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, tossed in olive oil and herbs, add color and nutrition to your plate.

Creative Garnishing Ideas

Presentation can make a meal even more enjoyable. When serving your Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef, consider these garnishing options:

Fresh Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup’s ingredients.
A Drizzle of Olive Oil: Just a splash on top can enhance the overall flavor profile.

These ideas not only make the soup more appealing but are also a simple way to impress your friends at dinner. Happy cooking!

For more delightful side dishes and garnishing ideas, check out these suggestions from The Kitchn!

Time breakdown for Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Preparation Time

Getting started on your Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef doesn’t take long! You’ll spend about 15 minutes chopping onions, browning the meat, and gathering your ingredients. A quick tip: have everything prepped and on hand to keep the momentum going.

Cooking Time

Once you’re ready, the actual cooking will take around 30 minutes. This includes simmering the sausage and ground beef with aromatic herbs, alongside tomatoes and broth to create that deep, comforting flavor.

Total Time

All in all, you’re looking at just 45 minutes from start to finish! In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner, this dish is a perfect go-to.

If you’re searching for tips on enhancing flavors, the Culinary Institute of America offers some fantastic insights here.

Nutritional Facts for Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Calories per Serving

When you dive into a warm bowl of Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef, you can expect approximately 400 calories per serving. This hearty recipe offers a satisfying delight without derailing your dietary goals.

Protein Content

One of the highlights of this soup is its impressive protein content, which averages around 25 grams per serving. The combination of sausage and ground beef not only boosts the flavor but also helps you stay full longer, making it a perfect post-workout meal or a cozy dinner after a long day.

Breakdown of Fats and Carbs

You’ll find a balanced mix of nutrients in this dish:

Fats: Roughly 18 grams, primarily from the meats and cheese, bringing in nourishing fats.
Carbohydrates: Around 30 grams, mostly from the pasta and veggies, providing energy to fuel your busy lifestyle.

For more detailed information on food nutrition, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central. It never hurts to empower yourself with knowledge about what you’re eating! So grab a spoon, and enjoy this delicious, nutritious bowl of comfort.

FAQs about Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best things about Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef is that it tastes even better the next day. You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much. If you’re planning to freeze it, consider leaving out the pasta until you’re ready to enjoy. Cooked pasta can become mushy when frozen.

What types of sausage work best?

When it comes to sausage, you have options! Italian sausage—both sweet and spicy—works wonderfully in Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef. If you prefer something leaner, turkey sausage can be a great alternative. You can also experiment with chicken sausage for a lighter version. Just be sure to choose a flavorful variety, as it plays a key role in your soup’s taste.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you’re someone who enjoys a kick, boosting the heat in your lasagna soup is easy! Consider adding:

Crushed red pepper flakes
Diced jalapeños or serranos
A few dashes of hot sauce

These additions can elevate your Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef to the next level. Just remember to taste as you go—it’s all about finding that perfect balance.

For some extra inspiration on spicy recipes, check out Spicy Kitchen for ideas that can spice up your dining repertoire! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Conclusion on Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef

Recap of the Dish’s Highlights

This Simple Lasagna Soup with Sausage and Ground Beef combines rich flavors with comforting textures, making it a perfect dish for any busy weeknight. With layers of tender noodles, savory sausage, and ground beef, all swimming in a flavorful tomato broth, this soup captures the essence of traditional lasagna in a fun and easy way. You can also customize it with your favorite vegetables or a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra touch.

Encouragement to Try Making It at Home

Don’t let the name fool you—this recipe is quick and approachable! Give it a shot for a satisfying family dinner or laid-back gathering with friends. You’ll impress everyone without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, leftovers are fantastic! So, what are you waiting for? Dive into this delightful dish and experience a comforting classic reinvented. You can find more innovative recipes by checking out this culinary resource that celebrates everyday cooking!