This lasagna soup brings all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna into a warm, hearty bowl. With tender pieces of chicken sausage, rich marinara, broken lasagna noodles, and a creamy cheese topping, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal that feels cozy and familiar while being easier and faster than traditional lasagna.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It delivers the same savory, cheesy taste of lasagna but with far less effort and cleanup. It’s family-friendly, customizable, and works beautifully for meal prep. The combination of broth, pasta, and cheese makes it comforting, while the chicken sausage keeps it flavorful yet lighter.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the soup:

• cooking spray
• 14 oz sweet Italian chicken sausage, casing removed
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided
• 3 cups low-sodium, fat-free chicken broth
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 bay leaves
• freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 6 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred)

For the topping:

• 6 tablespoons part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

Directions

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray. Add the chicken sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.

Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of the parsley, the chicken broth, water, marinara sauce, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of parsley. Set aside.

Add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup and cook uncovered according to the pasta package directions, stirring occasionally so the noodles don’t stick.

Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, fresh black pepper, and basil.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Serving size is approximately 1 1/3 cups per bowl.

Prep time is about 10 minutes.
Cook time is about 50 minutes.
Total time is approximately 1 hour.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the soup. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead, but for best texture, consider cooking and storing the pasta separately, then adding it when reheating.

Can I freeze lasagna soup?

It can be frozen, but the pasta may become softer after thawing. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the soup base without the pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating.

What can I use instead of chicken sausage?

You can substitute ground chicken, ground turkey, or lean beef if preferred.

Is this soup suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s mild, hearty, and very kid-friendly. You can reduce the pepper if needed.

Can I make it vegetarian?

You can omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.

What type of marinara works best?

Any good-quality marinara sauce works well. Choose one with simple ingredients for the best flavor.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any short pasta like bowties, shells, or rotini can replace broken lasagna noodles.

How do I keep the cheese from sinking?

Add the cheese on top just before serving rather than stirring it into the pot.

Can I make this soup thicker?

For a thicker soup, use slightly less broth or allow it to simmer uncovered a bit longer.

Is this soup filling enough as a main meal?

Yes, with protein, pasta, and cheese, it’s hearty enough to be served on its own.

Conclusion

Lasagna soup is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners and busy schedules. With simple ingredients, one pot, and endless flexibility, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again when you want something warm, satisfying, and easy to prepare.

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