This Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup combines all the tasty flavors of lasagna in a cozy soup. With cheesy ricotta and fresh spinach, it’s creamy and comforting!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want lasagna in a bowl? I love how easy it is to make—you just stir everything together. Perfect for chilly nights when a hug in a bowl is needed! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing aromatics. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable oil or butter! Both add great flavor to the soup.
Italian Sausage: This adds a nice meaty flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, leave it out or use tofu crumbles or lentils for added protein.
Chicken Broth: It gives the soup depth. Substitute with vegetable broth or water if you’re looking for a lighter option. Home-made broth makes it even tastier!
Lasagna Noodles: I break them up for easier serving. Swap with any other pasta you like, such as fusilli or rotini, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Ricotta Cheese: Essential for creaminess! Cottage cheese works in a pinch, though it’s a bit less creamy. You can mix it with a splash of cream or a bit more Parmesan if you do.
How Do You Make Sure the Spinach Stays Fresh and Bright in the Soup?
To keep your spinach vibrant and nutritious, add it towards the end of cooking. Here’s how:
- Once your noodles are cooked and just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach.
- Cook it for only about 2 minutes until it’s wilted. This way, it retains its bright color and crunchy texture.
Plus, adding it at the end helps preserve nutrients that could be lost with longer cooking times!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Soup for a Cozy Meal?
Serving this soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some personal tips:
- Top with a generous scoop of ricotta for creaminess that balances the tangy tomato base.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- For a little kick, add red pepper flakes before serving or place them on the table for those who like heat.
Pair the soup with some crusty bread for dipping! 😊
Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional, crumbled)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Time Needed:
This delicious Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making it a lovely meal ready in under an hour! You’ll enjoy the rich aroma and taste without spending the whole day in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, mix in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
2. Add the Sausage (if using):
If you’re using Italian sausage for added flavor, crumble it into the pot. Cook it until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it down with your spoon as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken (or vegetable) broth. Add the dried basil and oregano, followed by salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so all those lovely flavors can blend together.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the bubbling soup. Continue to simmer until the noodles are cooked al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, giving them a stir occasionally!
5. Add Spinach and Cheese:
Once the noodles are ready, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes. After that, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well mixed.
6. Serve It Up:
When ready to enjoy, ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese for creaminess. Scatter some fresh parsley on top for a beautiful touch and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who like a bit of heat.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and hearty Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Soup! Perfect for sharing with family or savoring on a cozy night in!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While lasagna noodles bring the classic feel, you can swap them for any pasta like fusilli or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you use.
Is This Soup Freezable?
Yes, this soup can be frozen! Just cool it completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a similar texture—just blend it a bit to make it smoother. Alternatively, cream cheese mixed with a little milk can also work in a pinch.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies or even some beans for added protein!
