01 -
Grab your biggest Dutch oven or stockpot, get it nice and hot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef (or sausage if you're feeling feisty) and break it up with a spoon. You want it browned and cooked through, no pink bits, please! Drain off any excess fat—I usually just tilt the pot and spoon it out, trying not to make a huge mess. Then, toss in your chopped onion and let it soften, maybe 5-7 minutes, until it's translucent and smells sweet. This is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing, honestly!
02 -
Now for the garlic! Add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir it around for just a minute, until you can really smell that garlic aroma. Don't let it burn, that's a mistake I've made before and it just makes everything bitter, oops! Pour in your crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Give it a good stir, making sure nothing is sticking to the bottom. Bring this whole beautiful concoction to a simmer. This is where all those Italian flavors really start to meld together.
03 -
Once your soup is simmering happily, it’s time for the lasagna noodles. Break them into manageable, bite-sized pieces – seriously, this is key for an Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup! Gently add them to the simmering broth, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Cook them according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until they’re al dente. You want them tender but still with a little bite, not mushy. I always taste a piece to check, usually burning my tongue a little in the process, but it's worth it!
04 -
When the noodles are perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to low. Now, for the magic! Stir in your heavy cream. This is what transforms it into that luscious, creamy lasagna soup texture we're craving. Let it gently warm through; you don't want to boil it once the cream is in, or it might separate. Give it another taste and adjust the seasonings—more salt, pepper, maybe even a tiny pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are a bit acidic. Trust your taste buds here!
05 -
While your soup is getting all creamy and happy, quickly mix your ricotta cheese with a little salt and pepper in a small bowl. This step is super simple but adds so much to the final dish. You can even stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan if you're feeling extra cheesy, which I usually am! This ricotta blend will be dolloped on top, giving you those classic, creamy lasagna layers without all the fuss of assembling a traditional pan.
06 -
Ladle your gorgeous Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup into bowls. Seriously, look at it – all those rich colors and creamy swirls! Top each serving with a generous dollop of that seasoned ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan, and a flourish of fresh parsley or basil. The aroma is just incredible. Serve it immediately and watch everyone dig in. It's a comforting, satisfying meal that brings all the lasagna vibes without any of the heavy lifting. Enjoy your masterpiece!