Warm, cozy, and bursting with flavor, this Zesty Italian Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna. It's perfect for when you crave those rich Italian flavors but want something a little lighter and quicker to prepare. Let's dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!
Italian sausage adds a rich and savory depth, with just the right amount of spice to start the soup on a flavor-packed note. A touch of olive oil helps sauté the sausage to perfection. The onion and garlic bring in aromatic sweetness and a subtle kick, essential for any good Italian dish. Red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning provide the zesty punch that makes this soup sing. The tomato paste thickens the base, while crushed tomatoes add a fresh, tangy layer. Chicken broth acts as the comforting backbone, tying all the flavors together. Lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces, make this soup hearty and truly reminiscent of traditional lasagna. Finally, the creamy blend of ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese, topped with fresh basil, gives a luxurious finish.
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty garlic bread, perfect for dunking. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup. For a more robust meal, serve alongside a classic Caprese salad.
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Next, stir in the red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Let them cook for about a minute to develop their flavors. Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let them cook until they're tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, mixing them into a smooth, creamy blend.
When the noodles are perfectly cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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