When the temperature drops and you’re craving something warm and comforting, nothing beats a bowl of Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup. This incredible recipe transforms all the beloved flavors of classic lasagna into a soul-warming soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners. Imagine tender Italian sausage, creamy ricotta dollops, and perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a rich, herb-infused tomato broth that tastes like it simmered all day.
This Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup captures everything you love about traditional lasagna but delivers it in a fraction of the time. No layering, no waiting for cheese to bubble, and definitely no complicated assembly required. Just pure, comforting goodness in a bowl that’ll have your family asking for seconds (and thirds!).
Why You’ll Love This Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Incredibly Easy: This soup comes together in one pot with minimal prep work. No need to pre-cook noodles or layer ingredients – just brown, simmer, and serve!
Amazing Flavor Combination: Rich Italian sausage pairs beautifully with creamy ricotta and tangy marinara, while fresh herbs add that authentic Italian touch you’re craving.
Super Flexible: Swap the sausage for ground turkey, use different pasta shapes, or make it vegetarian – this recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, meal prep for the week, or entertaining friends, this soup always impresses without the stress.
Ingredient Highlights & Notes
The magic of this Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup lies in using quality ingredients that build layers of flavor. The Italian sausage provides the hearty protein base, while the ricotta adds that signature creamy richness we all love in lasagna. Don’t skip the fresh herbs – they really make the difference between good soup and absolutely incredible soup.
For the pasta, broken lasagna sheets work perfectly, but feel free to experiment with what you have in your pantry. The key is choosing something that holds up well in the broth without getting mushy.
Ingredients List
For the Soup Base:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or mild) can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- 1 large onion, diced yellow or white onion works best
- 4 garlic cloves, minced fresh garlic is essential for flavor
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes San Marzano tomatoes are worth the splurge
- 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred; vegetable broth for vegetarian option
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste adds depth and richness
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning or 1 tablespoon fresh mixed herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, adjust to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta & Cheese:
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces or use rotini, penne, or shells
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese part-skim works too
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese freshly shredded melts better
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano for best flavor
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped adds color and freshness
Equipment & Tools
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (at least 6-quart capacity)
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Small bowl for mixing ricotta (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage (5 minutes)
Heat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with your wooden spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when you hear that lovely sizzling sound fade and the meat looks golden brown with crispy edges. Don’t drain the fat – it adds incredible flavor to the soup base!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (3-4 minutes)
Add the diced onion to the pot with the sausage and cook until it becomes translucent and fragrant. The onions should soften and pick up some of those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the minced garlic during the last 30 seconds – you’ll smell that amazing aroma when it’s ready.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base (2 minutes)
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute until it darkens slightly. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavor. Add the Italian seasoning, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for another 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Liquids (2 minutes)
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – that’s pure flavor gold! Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the cheese will add some saltiness later.
Step 5: Simmer and Add Pasta (12-15 minutes)
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook according to package directions until they’re tender but still have a slight bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and taste the broth to adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese (2-3 minutes)
Remove the pot from heat. In small spoonfuls, drop the ricotta cheese throughout the soup – don’t stir it in completely; you want those lovely creamy pockets! Sprinkle in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan, giving it a gentle stir to melt the cheese without making it stringy.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Finish with fresh chopped basil and parsley for that pop of color and fresh flavor that makes this dish restaurant-worthy.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions for Your Lasagna Soup
Ingredient Swaps & Dietary Modifications
For a Lighter Version: Use turkey Italian sausage and part-skim ricotta. You can also reduce the cheese by half and add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the lasagna noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta shapes. Rice-based or chickpea pasta work wonderfully and hold up well in the soup.
Vegetarian Twist: Skip the sausage and add a combination of mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Growing your own herbs like basil and oregano can elevate the vegetarian version even more.
Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use cashew cream instead of ricotta and nutritional yeast in place of the cheeses. The soup will still be incredibly satisfying!
Flavor Variations
Spicy Version: Double the red pepper flakes and use hot Italian sausage. Add a splash of hot sauce when serving.
Creamy Style: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking for an ultra-rich version.
Veggie-Packed: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the sautéing stage for extra nutrition and color.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Pasta Getting Mushy: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the hot broth. If making ahead, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it when reheating.
Soup Too Thick: Add more chicken broth or water, one cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Not Enough Flavor: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. Sometimes a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or warm garlic breadsticks for dipping. A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich, creamy soup.
For a complete comfort food experience, serve alongside some of these cozy fall favorites that make autumn evenings extra special. The soup is also perfect for casual entertaining – set up a soup bar with different toppings like extra cheese, fresh herbs, and crusty bread.
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the Italian flavors beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or a rich Italian soda.
Portion Size: This recipe serves 6-8 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or when you want leftovers for easy lunches.
Storage, Make-Ahead & Reheating Tips
Storage Guidelines
Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks.
Freezer: The soup freezes well for up to 3 months, though the pasta texture may change slightly. For best results, consider freezing the soup base without the pasta and cooking fresh noodles when reheating.
Make-Ahead Strategies
Complete Make-Ahead: Prepare the entire soup up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed.
Partial Prep: Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead. Store in the refrigerator, then continue with the recipe from step 4 when ready to serve.
Freezer-Friendly Base: Make a double batch of the soup base (without pasta and cheese) and freeze in portions. When ready to eat, thaw, bring to a simmer, and add pasta and cheese.
Reheating Instructions
Stovetop Method: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Microwave Method: Heat individual portions in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat using the stovetop method. If reheating from frozen, use low heat and stir frequently to prevent scorching.
Nutrition & Macro Information
This Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup provides a well-balanced meal with protein from the sausage and cheese, carbohydrates from the pasta, and vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 420-450 per serving
- Protein: 22-25g (excellent for muscle maintenance)
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g (energy from pasta and vegetables)
- Fat: 20-25g (from sausage and cheese)
- Fiber: 4-5g (from vegetables and tomatoes)
Dietary Notes: This recipe is naturally gluten-containing but can be easily modified. It’s also a good source of calcium from the cheese and lycopene from the tomatoes. For those watching sodium intake, use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.
The soup provides a satisfying meal that fits well into most balanced eating plans. The protein and fiber content help keep you full and satisfied, making it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy habits throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Sweet Italian sausage, mild Italian sausage, or even chicken sausage work wonderfully. For a spicier kick, try hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes. Turkey sausage is a great lighter option that still provides excellent flavor.
What if I can’t find lasagna noodles?
No problem! Any pasta shape that holds sauce well will work. Try penne, rigatoni, shells, or even broken spaghetti. The key is choosing something sturdy enough to hold up in the soup without becoming mushy.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker with the remaining ingredients except the pasta and cheese. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add the pasta during the last 30 minutes and the cheese just before serving.
How do I prevent the ricotta from curdling?
Remove the pot from heat before adding the ricotta, and add it in small dollops rather than stirring it in completely. This creates those lovely creamy pockets without the risk of curdling. Room temperature ricotta also incorporates better than cold.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach all work well. Add harder vegetables like peppers during the sautéing stage, and stir in leafy greens like spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Why is my soup too thin or too thick?
Soup consistency can vary based on cooking time and pasta absorption. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. If it’s too thick, add warm broth or water gradually until you reach the perfect consistency.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
Yes! Cottage cheese works as a lower-fat alternative, though the texture will be slightly different. For dairy-free options, try cashew cream or a dairy-free ricotta substitute. You could also use cream cheese for an ultra-rich version.
This comforting Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup brings together all the best elements of traditional lasagna in a format that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or planning ahead for busy days, this recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.
Conclusion
This Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just 30 minutes and one pot, you can create a meal that rivals any restaurant dish while filling your home with the most incredible aromas. The combination of savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and perfectly seasoned tomato broth creates a soup that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and forgiving nature. Whether you’re a beginner cook looking for an impressive dish or an experienced home chef seeking a reliable weeknight meal, this soup delivers every time. The make-ahead friendly nature means you can enjoy homemade comfort food even on your busiest days, and the customization options ensure everyone at your table will find something to love.
Ready to make this incredible soup? Gather your ingredients, heat up that Dutch oven, and get ready for a bowl of pure comfort that’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to make extra – this soup tastes even better the next day, and you’ll definitely want leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Start cooking this Sausage & Ricotta Lasagna Soup tonight, and discover why it’s quickly becoming everyone’s favorite cold-weather comfort food. Your family will thank you, and you’ll love how simple it is to create something this delicious and warming.