Name: Easy High Protein Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef (90% or higher); 8 lasagna noodles broken into pieces; 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 small onion diced; 3 cloves garlic minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes optional; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley optional

Craving lasagna but don’t want the layering, baking, and waiting? What if you could have all the flavor of classic lasagna in one cozy bowl and with a protein boost? This Easy High Protein Lasagna Soup delivers exactly that—a soul-warming, meat-rich, cheesy tomato soup that tastes like it came straight out of a bubbling casserole dish.

Perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or simply warming up after a long day, this soup gives you the richness of traditional lasagna with much less effort. With lean ground beef, hearty tomato broth, and tender lasagna noodles all topped with creamy ricotta and mozzarella, this bowl packs comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference:

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This will help evenly cook the meat and simmer the soup without scorching the bottom.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for breaking up the ground beef and stirring without damaging your cookware.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep the flavors balanced.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping fresh garlic or onions, if adding.
Soup Ladle: For serving up generous, hearty portions.
Storage Containers: If you’re prepping for the week, airtight containers help keep the soup fresh and easy to reheat.

Keeping your tools prepped and ready allows you to move smoothly through each step—and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients for the Easy High Protein Lasagna Soup

Each ingredient in this lasagna soup plays a key role in achieving the classic flavors and enhanced protein profile:

Lean Ground Beef (or Turkey): This is your primary protein source. Choose 90% lean or better for a hearty but lighter result.
Lasagna Noodles: The star carb that mimics the feel of a traditional lasagna. Break them into bite-sized pieces for easy spooning.
Crushed Tomatoes: Provides the rich, saucy base.
Tomato Paste: Deepens the flavor and thickens the broth slightly.
Onion & Garlic: Build the base aromatics—don’t skip them.
Beef Broth (or Chicken Broth): Adds depth to the soup and thins out the tomato for a sippable consistency.
Italian Seasoning: For that unmistakable herby lasagna profile.
Ricotta Cheese: Dolloped on top to mimic the lasagna layers.
Shredded Mozzarella: Melty and stringy—just like the topping on baked lasagna.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings the salt and sharpness.
Salt, Pepper & Chili Flakes: To taste, for seasoning and a subtle kick.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a touch of color.

How To Make the Easy High Protein Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat your Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté diced onion until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add lean ground beef and break it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Then add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and all your seasonings: Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for 15 minutes so the flavors develop.

Step 5: Add the Noodles

Toss in your broken lasagna noodles and simmer uncovered until they’re al dente, around 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve with Cheese

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Top each with a generous spoonful of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan. Let it melt slightly for that classic lasagna experience.

Serving and Storing Your Lasagna Soup

When serving, ladle the soup into deep bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese for presentation. This soup is satisfying enough to serve as a full meal, especially when paired with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad.

For storing, let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions without the cheese topping for up to 3 months. When reheating, bring it gently to a simmer on the stovetop and top fresh with cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?

Yes, you can swap in rotini, bowties, or even broken spaghetti. Lasagna noodles give the most authentic texture, but feel free to adapt.

How can I increase the protein even more?

Add in white beans, cooked lentils, or an extra scoop of lean ground turkey. You can also stir in unflavored protein powder designed for soups.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be made gluten-free by using certified GF lasagna noodles or a pasta alternative like chickpea pasta.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the meat and aromatics first, then add all ingredients (except noodles and cheese) to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. Add noodles in the last 30 minutes.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild by default. You control the spice level with chili flakes. Feel free to omit or increase based on preference.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat and veggie broth. Skip the beef and it will still be hearty and delicious.

Want More Hearty Soup Ideas?

If this Easy High Protein Lasagna Soup hit the spot, here are a few more cozy and protein-rich dishes you might enjoy:

You could try the Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup for a Mediterranean take on legumes and greens. Or go for the creamy comfort of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s perfect for chilly days.

The Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup leans classic and slow-cooked, and if you like variety in textures, the Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a rich, satisfying alternative. For something bold and Southern-inspired, the Wendy’s Chili Recipe offers robust flavor in every spoonful.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your soup or dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use turkey or beef? Did you get creative with the toppings? Leave a comment below or tag me on Pinterest at LadyPlate. I’m always curious how you make it your own.