Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Quick Lasagna Soup – Dinner Ready in Under 30 Minutes is my secret weapon. I developed it during a particularly hectic week when my budget and time were stretched thin.
It delivers all the cozy, cheesy comfort of a traditional lasagna. But it comes together in one pot in under half an hour. You don’t need expensive ingredients to eat well, and this recipe is living proof. If you love quick one-pot meals, you should also try our BEST EVER One-Pot Lasagna Soup for another comforting variation.
Recipe Overview
I love how this recipe gives you a clear snapshot of what you’re making. It helps you get organized and see just how simple this meal is to pull together.
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Category: Soup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
As a budget-conscious cook, I’m always analyzing cost per serving. This soup is a champion because it uses smart, affordable staples. You’re building incredible flavor without the pricey cuts of meat or specialty cheeses.
The base is built on canned tomatoes and broth, which are pantry powerhouses. We’re using ground beef, but you can easily swap it for an even cheaper protein like ground turkey or lentils. It’s a flexible recipe that adapts to what’s on sale.
You also save by not buying specific lasagna noodles. We break regular pasta into pieces, which works perfectly. This approach prevents food waste from a half-used box of specialty noodles.
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that keep my grocery bill low. Implementing just one or two of these can make a big difference for your wallet.
First, always buy your ground meat in larger family packs. I immediately divide it into one-pound portions and freeze them. This is almost always cheaper per pound than buying small trays.
Second, don’t shy away from store-brand canned goods and dried pasta. The quality is almost always identical to name brands. This simple swap can save you dollars on each shopping trip.
Finally, keep a well-stocked pantry with dried herbs and spices. A little Italian seasoning can transform simple ingredients. It’s far more cost-effective than buying fresh herbs that might wilt before you use them.
PREPARATION
I remember the first time I made this; I was shocked by how quickly it came together. Follow these simple steps for a stress-free dinner. For another quick seafood option, check out our Juicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi in 15 Mins.
1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for just one more minute until fragrant. You’ll smell all those wonderful flavors coming together.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce and broth, and give everything a good stir. Bring the soup to a lively boil. This is where the magic starts.
4. Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodle pieces. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You want the pasta to be perfectly al dente.
5. While the soup simmers, mix the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses together in a small bowl. This creates a delicious, creamy topping that mimics the classic lasagna experience.
6. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs if you have them.
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
I hate throwing away food, so I’ve become an expert at repurposing leftovers. Here’s how to make the most of this recipe.
If you have any leftover soup, it stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so just add a splash of broth or water when you reheat it.
You can also freeze this soup for a future easy meal. I recommend freezing it without the pasta or cooking the pasta separately to add later. This prevents it from becoming mushy upon thawing.
If you only used part of an onion, chop the rest and freeze it for your next soup or sauté. Don’t let those little bits and pieces go to waste.
Nutrition Notes
While I’m not a dietitian, I believe in being mindful of what we eat. This soup is a balanced meal all on its own.
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the ground beef and cheese.
- Rich in Lycopene: From the tomato-based marinara sauce.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the fat content by using lean meat and low-fat cheese.
- Carb Smart: Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for added fiber.
This quick lasagna soup has become a staple in my home, and I hope it finds a place in yours too. It’s the perfect solution for a busy night when you need comfort food fast. If you’re looking for another sweet treat to enjoy after dinner, try our Classic Banana Muffins – Soft, Sweet & Perfect Every Time.
Common Questions About This Recipe
I get a lot of great questions from readers who try my recipes. Here are answers to the most common ones about this dish.
Can I make this lasagna soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first for the best flavor. Then, add all ingredients except the pasta and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Add the broken noodles 30 minutes before serving to cook through.
What can I use if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
No problem at all! This is a great budget-friendly swap. Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle will work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for al dente.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of drained and rinsed lentils or some chopped mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free alternative. It’s just as delicious.
Let me know your own money-saving twists for this recipe in the comments below! Did you use a different pasta or add extra veggies? Please leave a rating!