One Pot Lasagna Soup
When you’re craving lasagna but don’t have the time (or energy) to layer noodles, sauces, and cheese, one pot lasagna soup is the perfect solution. It delivers all the cozy, cheesy, tomato-rich flavor of classic lasagna—without the work or cleanup. Everything cooks together in one pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
I’ve made this soup countless times when comfort food was non-negotiable but time was limited. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and incredibly forgiving. In this post, you’ll learn exactly how to make one pot lasagna soup, plus tips, variations, and FAQs so it turns out perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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All the lasagna flavor – Without layering or baking
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One pot meal – Easy cooking and easy cleanup
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Hearty & comforting – Filling enough for dinner
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Great leftovers – Tastes even better the next day
Ingredients & Prep
Main Ingredients Prep
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Ground beef or Italian sausage – Adds rich, savory flavor
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Lasagna noodles – Broken into bite-sized pieces
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Onion – Diced small so it blends into the soup
Seasonings, Sauces, or Flavor Base
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Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is best
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Italian seasoning – Brings classic lasagna flavor
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Tomato sauce – Creates the rich soup base
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Crushed tomatoes – Adds body and depth
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Beef or chicken broth – Keeps the soup hearty but spoonable
Pantry Staples
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Olive oil – For sautéing
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Salt & black pepper – Adjust to taste
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Red pepper flakes – Optional, for gentle heat
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Ricotta cheese – For that classic lasagna finish
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Mozzarella & Parmesan – Melty, cheesy goodness
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cooking Method
Stir in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle boil.
Add broken lasagna noodles and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
Doneness or Texture Check
The noodles should be soft but not mushy, and the soup should be thick but still brothy. If it gets too thick, add more broth or water.
Resting or Final Touches
Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of ricotta and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the noodles – They continue to soften as the soup sits
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Skipping the stir – Noodles can stick to the bottom
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Not tasting before serving – Adjust seasoning at the end
Recommended Tools
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Large pot or Dutch oven
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Wooden spoon
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Ladle
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with added broth, as the noodles absorb liquid over time.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Version
Use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for heat.
Healthy / Special Diet Option
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Lean protein – Use ground turkey or chicken
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Low carb – Use fewer noodles and add zucchini
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Vegetarian – Skip meat and add mushrooms and spinach
Global Flavor Twist
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Italian classic – Add fresh basil or oregano
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Creamy version – Stir in a splash of cream
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Cheesy overload – Add cheese directly into the soup
Serving Suggestions
Serve one pot lasagna soup with:
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Garlic bread or breadsticks
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A crisp green salad
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Roasted vegetables
Top each bowl with extra cheese and fresh herbs for a restaurant-style feel.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! For best results, cook the soup without noodles and add them fresh when reheating.
How do I fix common mistakes?
If it’s too thick, add broth. If bland, add salt or Italian seasoning. If noodles are mushy, reduce cooking time next round.
Conclusion
This one pot lasagna soup gives you everything you love about lasagna in an easy, comforting, spoonable form. It’s cozy, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights when you still want a homemade meal.
Save this recipe and share it—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you loved this, you’ll also enjoy baked ziti soup or classic minestrone for your next cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 24 oz jar tomato sauce
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 8 lasagna noodles broken into bite-sized pieces
- Ricotta cheese for serving
- Shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add broken lasagna noodles and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
- Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, topped with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Notes
- Stir occasionally so noodles don’t stick to the bottom.
- The soup thickens as it sits—add extra broth when reheating if needed.
- For best leftovers, consider cooking noodles separately and adding them when serving.
- Tastes even better the next day.
