Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Lasagna night used to be an all-day affair in our house, a weekend project reserved for special occasions. While we adore the rich, layered flavors of traditional lasagna, the truth is, weeknights are often too hectic for such elaborate undertakings. That’s where this Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup completely revolutionized our dinner routine. I stumbled upon this recipe during a frantic search for something comforting, flavorful, and – crucially – quick and easy. Let me tell you, it has become an absolute staple. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything resembling soup, devours bowl after bowl. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity: everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup, and maximizing flavor. It captures all the deliciousness of lasagna – the hearty tomato sauce, the ricotta creaminess, the cheesy goodness, and of course, those satisfying lasagna noodles – but in a cozy, spoonable soup form. Honestly, if you’re looking for a vegetarian meal that’s both incredibly easy and incredibly satisfying, you absolutely have to try this one-pot lasagna soup. It’s a game-changer for busy families, and I guarantee it will become a regular request in your household too.

Ingredients

This recipe shines because of its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building that classic lasagna taste in a soup format. Let’s break down what you’ll need to gather to create this delicious vegetarian one-pot lasagna soup:

• Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is the foundation for sautéing our vegetables and building flavor. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for its richer taste and health benefits. About 2 tablespoons will be sufficient to get things started and prevent sticking in your pot. Olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps to soften the vegetables and release their natural sweetness, creating a deeper and more complex base for the soup.
• Onion: The aromatic base of almost any great soup, onion provides a foundational savory flavor. One medium yellow onion, diced, is perfect. Yellow onions are versatile and become sweet and mellow when cooked, adding depth without overpowering the other flavors. Make sure to dice the onion fairly uniformly so it cooks evenly and blends seamlessly into the soup. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can use a white onion instead.
• Carrots: Adding sweetness, color, and a touch of texture, carrots are a welcome addition to this lasagna soup. Two medium carrots, peeled and diced, will do the trick. Just like the onion, dice the carrots to a similar size for even cooking. Carrots not only contribute to the flavor profile but also add valuable nutrients and vitamins to your soup. They soften beautifully as they cook, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the tomatoes and spices.
• Celery: Often overlooked, celery is a crucial aromatic vegetable that adds a distinct savory and slightly peppery note to soups. Two stalks of celery, diced, will enhance the overall flavor complexity. Celery might seem subtle on its own, but it works wonders in combination with onion and carrots to create a classic mirepoix base, which is essential for building rich and layered flavor in soups and sauces. Don’t skip the celery!
• Garlic: No Italian-inspired dish is complete without garlic! Minced garlic provides a pungent and aromatic kick that elevates the entire soup. About 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced, will infuse the soup with its signature flavor. Freshly minced garlic is always best for the most intense flavor. Add the garlic after the onions, carrots, and celery have softened, as garlic can burn easily if cooked for too long over high heat.
• Dried Italian Herbs: This is where we bring in that classic lasagna flavor profile! A blend of dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary is essential. About 2 teaspoons of a good quality Italian herb blend will impart that authentic Italian taste. Dried herbs are convenient and potent, releasing their flavors as they simmer in the soup. If you have fresh herbs on hand, you can certainly use those as well, adding them towards the end of cooking for the freshest flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a subtle kick of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can really elevate the soup and add a layer of complexity. Start with a ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your preference. Red pepper flakes are optional, but they add a delightful warmth that balances the richness of the tomatoes and cheese. If you are sensitive to spice or cooking for children, you can easily omit them.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: The heart and soul of our lasagna soup! A large can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes forms the base of the sauce. Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor – San Marzano tomatoes are a fantastic choice if you can find them. Crushed tomatoes provide the perfect texture for soup, offering a balance between smoothness and chunky tomato pieces. They bring that essential tomatoey sweetness and acidity that is characteristic of lasagna.
• Vegetable Broth: The liquid component of our soup, vegetable broth adds depth and flavor beyond just water. About 4 cups of vegetable broth will provide the right consistency for our lasagna soup. Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness of the final dish. The vegetable broth helps to meld all the flavors together and creates that comforting, soupy texture we are aiming for. If you don’t have vegetable broth, you can use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version (though this recipe is designed to be vegetarian!).
• Lasagna Noodles: It wouldn’t be lasagna soup without the lasagna noodles! About 6-8 lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces, will mimic the layers of traditional lasagna. Breaking the noodles into smaller, bite-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly in the soup and are easy to eat with a spoon. You can use regular lasagna noodles or whole wheat lasagna noodles for added fiber. Avoid using “oven-ready” or no-boil lasagna noodles as they may not cook properly in the soup.
• Ricotta Cheese: To replicate that creamy lasagna filling, we’ll use ricotta cheese. About 1 cup of ricotta cheese will be stirred in at the end to add richness and creaminess. Full-fat ricotta cheese provides the best flavor and texture, but you can use part-skim ricotta if you prefer. The ricotta adds a luxurious creaminess that perfectly complements the tomato-based soup and mimics the classic lasagna filling.
• Parmesan Cheese: For that salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor, Parmesan cheese is essential. Grated Parmesan cheese will be used both in the soup and as a topping. About ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese will be stirred into the soup, and extra for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always preferred for the best flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory depth that enhances all the other flavors in the soup and provides that characteristic cheesy lasagna element.
• Fresh Basil (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color to finish the soup. Fresh basil is best, but you can use other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano if you prefer. The fresh herbs not only add visual appeal but also brighten up the flavors of the soup and provide a final aromatic touch.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors and bring everything together. Salt and pepper should be added to taste throughout the cooking process. Seasoning is crucial for any dish, and lasagna soup is no exception. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed to ensure all the flavors are well-balanced and the soup is seasoned to your liking.

Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients prepped and ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this incredibly easy and flavorful vegetarian one-pot lasagna soup. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these instructions carefully for a guaranteed delicious result:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a few seconds. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of the soup. Don’t rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften and release their aromas is key to a flavorful soup. Stirring prevents them from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Once the vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Cooking the garlic and spices in the oil helps to release their flavors and infuse them into the soup base. The aroma at this stage should be incredibly inviting, signaling the deliciousness to come.
3. Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Add the canned crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to the soup. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a richer and more complex soup.
4. Add Lasagna Noodles: Once the soup is simmering, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir gently to ensure the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lasagna noodles are cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking. The cooking time for the noodles may vary slightly depending on the type of lasagna noodles you use, so check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
5. Stir in Ricotta and Parmesan: Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Gently stir in the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until they are melted and incorporated into the soup. The ricotta will add a creamy texture, and the Parmesan will add a salty, cheesy flavor. Stirring gently prevents the ricotta from breaking down too much and ensures it remains slightly textured in the soup. Taste the soup at this point and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. This is your opportunity to fine-tune the flavors to your liking.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy! The fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness, while the extra Parmesan cheese provides a final cheesy touch. This soup is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot.

Nutrition Facts

This Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup is not only delicious and convenient but also offers a good balance of nutrients. It’s packed with vegetables, providing vitamins and fiber, and the ricotta and Parmesan cheese contribute protein and calcium. Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown:

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used, especially the type of ricotta and Parmesan cheese, and the amount of olive oil).

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (estimated):

• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams (primarily from olive oil and cheese, with a mix of healthy fats and saturated fats)
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams (primarily from pasta and vegetables, including fiber and complex carbohydrates)
• Fiber: 5-7 grams (from vegetables and whole wheat pasta if used)

Important Note: These are estimated values. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator app and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. The nutritional content can also be adjusted by making ingredient substitutions, such as using part-skim ricotta or whole wheat pasta. Overall, this lasagna soup is a relatively healthy and satisfying meal, especially when compared to traditional lasagna, which can be much higher in calories and fat. It provides a good source of vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates for a balanced and nourishing meal.

Preparation Time

One of the biggest advantages of this Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup is its quick preparation time. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and comforting meal on the table in under an hour. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep time: 20 minutes (This includes chopping vegetables, mincing garlic, breaking lasagna noodles, and gathering all ingredients). The prep time is relatively minimal, especially if you are efficient with your knife skills. Having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking streamlines the process and ensures a smooth cooking experience.
• Cook time: 30 minutes (This includes sautéing vegetables, simmering the soup, and cooking the lasagna noodles). The cook time is mostly hands-off, allowing you to attend to other tasks while the soup simmers and the flavors develop. The majority of the cooking time is dedicated to simmering the soup and ensuring the lasagna noodles are cooked through.
• Total time: 50 minutes (This is the total time from start to finish, including both prep time and cook time). In under an hour, you can have a complete and satisfying vegetarian meal ready to enjoy. This quick total time makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and easy dinner option.

How to Serve

This Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with various serving suggestions and accompaniments. Here are some delightful ways to serve and enjoy your lasagna soup:

• Toppings Galore:
  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always a welcome topping, adding extra cheesy flavor and saltiness.
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley provides a burst of freshness, aroma, and vibrant green color.
  • Ricotta Cheese Dollop: A small dollop of fresh ricotta cheese adds extra creaminess and coolness to each spoonful.
  • Croutons or Crusty Bread: For added texture and crunch, top with homemade croutons or toasted crusty bread pieces. Garlic croutons or Italian herb croutons would be particularly delicious.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little extra heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.
  • Pesto: A swirl of pesto (basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto) can add a vibrant and flavorful finish.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For a tangy and creamy topping, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt works wonderfully.
• Side Dishes to Complement:
  • Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread or cheesy garlic bread is always a perfect pairing with lasagna soup. The warm, buttery, and garlicky bread is ideal for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the flavorful broth.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. A Caesar salad or Italian salad would also be excellent choices.
  • Crusty Bread Loaf: A loaf of crusty Italian bread or sourdough bread is perfect for serving alongside the soup for dipping and scooping.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a truly comforting and indulgent meal, serve the lasagna soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. A classic cheddar grilled cheese or a more gourmet grilled cheese with mozzarella and tomato would be delicious.
  • Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add more vegetables to your meal, serve the soup with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Make it a Meal:
  • Family Dinner: This lasagna soup is perfect for a cozy and satisfying family dinner on a weeknight or weekend.
  • Potluck or Gathering: It’s a great dish to bring to a potluck, casual gathering, or picnic. It travels well and can be easily reheated.
  • Lunch Leftovers: Leftover lasagna soup makes a fantastic and flavorful lunch the next day. It’s even more flavorful after the flavors have had time to meld together overnight.

Additional Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup

To ensure your Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup is absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Lasagna noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark and cook just until they are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). They will continue to soften slightly in the hot soup even after you remove it from the heat. Overcooked pasta will detract from the overall texture of the soup.
2. Use Good Quality Canned Tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes directly impacts the flavor of the soup. Opt for good quality crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano tomatoes if available, for the best flavor. Lower quality tomatoes can be acidic and less flavorful, resulting in a less satisfying soup.
3. Taste and Season as You Go: Seasoning is crucial for a flavorful soup. Taste the soup at various stages of cooking – after sautéing the vegetables, after adding the tomatoes and broth, and again after adding the noodles and cheese. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian herbs as needed to ensure the flavors are well-balanced and to your liking. Don’t be afraid to season generously, especially with salt, as it enhances all the other flavors.
4. Customize with Vegetables: This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily customize it by adding other vegetables to your liking. Consider adding:
   • Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms sautéed with the onions, carrots, and celery add an earthy flavor.
   • Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Diced zucchini or yellow squash adds a mild sweetness and texture.
   • Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added greens and nutrients.
   • Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers (any color) add sweetness and crunch.
     Experiment and find your favorite vegetable combinations to make this soup your own.
5. Make it Ahead and Reheat: Lasagna soup is a great make-ahead meal. The flavors actually develop and deepen even further when the soup sits overnight in the refrigerator. You can prepare the soup up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during refrigeration. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or for busy weeknights when you want a quick and easy dinner option.

FAQ About Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious Easy Vegetarian One Pot Lasagna Soup:

Q1: Can I make this lasagna soup vegan?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan. To make it vegan, simply substitute the ricotta cheese with a vegan ricotta alternative (many brands are available in grocery stores, often made from tofu or cashews). Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative for topping. Double-check your vegetable broth to ensure it is certified vegan. With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting vegan lasagna soup.

Q2: Can I freeze lasagna soup?

A: Yes, lasagna soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prepping or stocking your freezer for future meals. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it directly in a pot over low heat on the stovetop. Be aware that the pasta may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor and texture will still be delicious.

Q3: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: While lasagna noodles are traditional for lasagna soup, you can certainly experiment with other types of pasta if you prefer or if you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand. Good alternatives include:

• Penne: Penne pasta holds its shape well in soup and provides a similar bite to lasagna noodles.
• Rotini: Rotini or other spiral-shaped pasta also work well and are fun to eat in soup.
• Farfalle (Bow Tie): Farfalle adds a different shape and texture to the soup.
• Ditalini: Small pasta shapes like ditalini are also a good option for a more delicate soup.
  Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package directions, as different pasta shapes may cook at different rates.

Q4: Can I add protein to this soup?

A: While this recipe is designed to be vegetarian, you can certainly add protein if you wish. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding:

• White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern): Stir in a can of drained and rinsed white beans along with the tomatoes and broth for added protein and creaminess.
• Lentils (Brown or Green): Add about ½ cup of lentils along with the broth and allow them to cook with the soup until tender.
• Tofu or Tempeh (cubed and sautéed): Sauté cubed tofu or tempeh separately until browned and add it to the soup towards the end of cooking.
  For a non-vegetarian option, you could add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage (removed from casings), or shredded cooked chicken. Brown and cook these protein additions separately before adding them to the soup.

Q5: My lasagna soup is too thick/too thin. How can I adjust the consistency?

A: If your lasagna soup is too thick, you can easily thin it out by adding more vegetable broth or water. Add liquid gradually, about ¼ cup at a time, stirring well and checking the consistency until it reaches your desired thickness. If your lasagna soup is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period. The liquid will evaporate as it simmers, concentrating the soup and thickening it slightly. You can also mash a small amount of the cooked lasagna noodles against the side of the pot to release starch and help thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir the slurry into the simmering soup and cook for a few minutes until thickened.

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