Okay, let’s be real. Who doesn’t crave lasagna? That rich, cheesy, layered goodness…it’s basically the edible version of a warm hug. But let’s face it, traditional lasagna? A project. A major project. And often, a not-so-healthy one. I get it. You want that cozy feeling without the food coma and regret.
That’s where lasagna soup comes in! It delivers all the familiar flavors of your favorite Italian classic, but in a faster, lighter, and totally customizable package. Think layers of flavor, hearty veggies, and the perfect amount of cheesy goodness – all in a bowl. I’ve been obsessed with lasagna soup for years, and I’ve experimented a lot (some successes, some…learning experiences. Let’s just say I once used way too much ricotta and it created a pudding-like situation. Oops!). I’m sharing my ultimate collection of healthy lasagna soup recipes, proving you can have your lasagna and eat it too (without feeling guilty)!
So, grab a spoon (and maybe a glass of wine 😉), and let’s get cooking!
1. Classic Italian Lasagna Soup – The OG
This is your baseline, your foundation. A faithful recreation of lasagna flavors in soup form. It’s a perfect weeknight winner when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!) – 1 lb
- Onion – 1, chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes – 28 oz can
- Tomato sauce – 15 oz can
- Beef broth – 4 cups
- Dried oregano – 1 tsp
- Dried basil – 1 tsp
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Lasagna noodles (broken into smaller pieces) – 6-8 oz
- Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Italian sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then add the lasagna noodles. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve hot, topped with dollops of ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s undeniably comforting and familiar. Perfect for those evenings when you just need a hug in a bowl. Plus, cleanup is way easier than making a full lasagna!
2. Veggie-Packed Lasagna Soup (Sneak in those Greens!)
Got kids who refuse to eat their veggies? This is your secret weapon. It’s loaded with healthy goodness without sacrificing a single ounce of flavor. Don’t tell them they’re eating spinach!
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Spinach – 5 oz bag, chopped
- Zucchini – 1, chopped
- Carrots – 2, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, zucchini, and carrots during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Serve as before.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a sneaky way to boost your veggie intake! The veggies practically melt into the soup, adding extra nutrients and a subtle sweetness. My kids actually ask for seconds!
3. Creamy Tomato & Basil Lasagna Soup (Velvety Goodness!)
Want to take your lasagna soup to the next level of decadence (without the guilt)? This recipe adds a touch of creaminess, making it absolutely divine.
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Heavy cream – ½ cup
- Fresh basil – ½ cup, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil just before serving.
- Serve as before.
Why You’ll Love It: That creamy texture? Chef’s kiss. The fresh basil brightens the whole dish, making it both rich and refreshing.
4. Spicy Southwest Lasagna Soup (A Kick of Heat!)
Feeling adventurous? This recipe cranks up the heat with southwestern flavors. It’s a surprisingly delicious twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Chili powder – 1 tbsp
- Cumin – 1 tsp
- Diced bell peppers (red or orange) – 1/2, chopped
- Black beans – 1 can (rinsed and drained)
- Cilantro – chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-3 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe. Add chili powder and cumin when you add the seasonings.
- Add chopped bell peppers and black beans with the noodles.
- Serve garnished with cilantro.
Why You’ll Love It: The smoky heat and earthy black beans are a fantastic complement to the Italian flavors. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth!
5. Chicken & Mushroom Lasagna Soup (Lean & Savory)
Sub in chicken for the sausage for a leaner, equally satisfying soup. The mushrooms add a lovely earthiness.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast – 1 lb, cooked and shredded
- Mushrooms (cremini or button) – 8 oz, sliced
- All other ingredients from the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the mushrooms in the pot, then add the onion and garlic.
- Follow steps 3-5 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe, adding the shredded chicken with the noodles.
Why You’ll Love It: A lighter, protein-packed option that’s still bursting with flavor.
6. Lemon Herb Lasagna Soup (Bright & Fresh)
Sometimes you want something a little lighter and brighter. This one adds a pop of lemon and fresh herbs – perfection!
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Lemon zest – 1 tsp
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
- Fresh thyme – 1 tsp, chopped
- Fresh rosemary – 1/2 tsp, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary just before serving.
Why You’ll Love It: The lemon brightens everything up and cuts through the richness of the cheese. It’s surprisingly refreshing!
7. Spicy Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup (For the Heat Seekers!)
Take the spicy southwest and crank it up even more! This is for those of us who like serious heat.
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Red pepper flakes – 1-2 tsp (depending on how spicy you like it) – Seriously, start with 1 tsp!
- Cayenne pepper – ¼ – ½ tsp (optional, for extra heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe, adding red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper (if using) with the other seasonings.
- Serve as before.
Why You’ll Love It: The fiery kick is intensely satisfying. Just be prepared to have some water (or milk!) handy. /:
8. Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup (Autumnal Delight!)
This one is a seasonal favorite. The sweetness of the butternut squash balances the savory Italian flavors beautifully.
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Butternut squash – 1.5 lbs, peeled, seeded, and cubed.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the beef broth.
- Follow steps 4-5 of the “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe, simmering until the squash is fork-tender.
- For an even creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
Why You’ll Love It: The warm, comforting sweetness of the squash is perfect for fall evenings. It’s like a cozy blanket in a bowl!
9. White Bean & Kale Lasagna Soup (Hearty & Healthy!)
Add some extra fiber and vitamins with white beans and the power of kale.
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from “Classic Italian Lasagna Soup” recipe PLUS:
- Cannellini beans – 1 can, rinsed and drained
- Kale – 1 cup, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 of the Classic Italian Lasagna Soup recipe.
- Add the Cannellini beans and Kale with the lasagna noodles. Serve as before.
Why You’ll Love It: This soup is wholesome and filling, plus it doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Your Soup Adventure Awaits!
There you have it – 9 delicious and healthy lasagna soup recipes to satisfy your cravings! From classic Italian to spicy southwestern, there’s a soup here for everyone. The best part? They’re all relatively quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy a comforting bowl of lasagna goodness any time. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Swap out ingredients, add your own twist – that’s the beauty of soup. Now go forth and create some soup magic! Happy cooking!
