Lasagna Soup with Meatballs

Why This Recipe Is a Family Staple

Lasagna layered in a pan is delicious, but transforming it into a hearty soup makes it quicker, less fussy, and easier on the dishes—yet still packed with flavor. Adding meatballs elevates it to a family favorite that’s soul-warming and simple. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back Sunday dinners, this one-pot wonder delivers cozy comfort and ample leftovers.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: ~20 minutes
Cook Time: ~40 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour

Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey or beef (or a mix)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil for searing, or cooking spray

Soup Base:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for warmth)

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces

• ½ cup ricotta (optional swirl)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare & Cook the Meatballs (15 Minutes)

• In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, seasoning, and salt & pepper. Mix gently—overworking makes meatballs tough.

• Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

• Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sear meatballs until browned on all sides (not fully cooked through). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics & Build Flavor (5 Minutes)

• In the same pot, add onion and sauté until softened (~3 minutes).

• Add garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, cooking 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes & Broth, Simmer (5 Minutes)

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Finish Meatballs & Noodles (15 Minutes)

• Return meatballs to the simmering broth.

• Add broken lasagna noodles and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are al dente and meatballs are cooked through.

5. Add Cheese & Garnish (5 Minutes)

• Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Optionally swirl in ricotta for extra richness.

• Serve hot with garnishes of fresh basil or parsley, and don’t shy away from topping with extra cheese.

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Tips & Variations

• Make Ahead: Prepare meatballs in advance and freeze. Thaw and add as per recipe.

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace meatballs with roasted chickpeas, lentil balls, or mushrooms.

• Low-Carb Option: Use spiralized zucchini or keto-friendly noodles instead of pasta.

• Family-Friendly Mildness: Skip pepper flakes for a kid-approved version; adults can add a dash at the table.

• Meal Prep: Store soup (without noodles) in fridge—add fresh pasta or noodles when reheating for leftovers.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! Just add them to the simmering soup for the last 10 minutes.

How do I avoid soggy noodles when reheating?
Store noodles separately and stir them in only when reheating to maintain texture.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely—freeze soup base (sans noodles & cheeses) up to 2 months. Thaw and finish fresh.

Can I make this on a busy weeknight?
Yes—prep meatballs the night before or use store-bought to save time.

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Nutrition Snapshot (Approx. per Serving)

• Calories: ~390 kcal

• Protein: ~24g

• Fat: ~12g

• Carbs: ~40g

• Fiber: ~3g

• Sodium: Moderate (use low-sodium broth to adjust)

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Why This Works So Well

• Complete Comfort Meal: All the flavors of lasagna, but simpler and quicker.

• Kid & Adult Approved: Meatballs are usually a hit, and cheesy broth pleases all palates.

• One-Pot Efficiency: Less cleanup, more cozy time.

• Highly Customizable: Easy to adapt for dietary needs or preferences.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette for brightness.

• Offer a side of crusty garlic bread for soaking up the broth.

• Enjoy leftovers for lunch—microwave until bubbly, then swirl in extra ricotta or cheese.

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Final Thoughts

Our Lasagna Soup with Meatballs is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, transforming classic lasagna flavors into a cozy, family-friendly format. Whether weeknight or weekend, its warmth, cheese, and heartiness make it an instant family favorite you’ll keep returning to.