Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup brings together the best elements of classic lasagna in an easy-to-make, comforting soup form. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, luscious texture, while the savory sausage and herbs add deep flavor. Homemade garlic bread croutons add a satisfying crunch, making this a perfect meal that feels indulgent yet simple.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Garlic Bread Croutons
- 1 French bread or baguette, sliced
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (such as dried parsley, oregano, or basil)
directions
- Sauté the Sausage and Garlic
Brown the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until fully cooked and fragrant. Remove excess fat, then add minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. - Add Liquids and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the dried oregano and basil, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. - Cook the Pasta
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the boiling soup. Reduce heat and let simmer until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape, about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - Stir in the Cheeses
Lower the heat and fold in dollops of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and freshly grated Parmesan. Stir gently until the cheeses melt, creating a creamy texture. - Make the Garlic Bread Croutons
Slice the French bread or baguette and spread a mixture of butter, garlic, and Italian herbs on each slice. Toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy, then chop into bite-sized croutons. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with garlic bread croutons. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter version.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Substitute broken lasagna noodles with broken spaghetti or penne.
- Use vegan cheese alternatives and plant-based sausage for a vegan option.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for new flavor profiles.
storage/reheating
Store leftover soup and croutons separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat soup gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. Reheat croutons in a toaster oven or oven to retain crispness.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup and croutons separately and reheat just before serving.
How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Add the pasta later in the cooking process and monitor it closely to keep it al dente.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freeze the soup without the cheese and croutons. Add fresh cheese and croutons when serving.
What type of sausage should I use?
Italian sausage, mild or spicy depending on preference, works best for authentic flavor.
How do I get the best garlic flavor in croutons?
Use fresh minced garlic and softened butter spread evenly before toasting.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Fresh minced garlic is preferred for better flavor, but pre-minced can be used in a pinch.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
Cream cheese or mascarpone can be a substitute with a slightly different texture.
How thick should the soup be?
It should be creamy but not too thick; add extra broth or water if needed.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, substitute with gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes while cooking the sausage or use spicy Italian sausage.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Soup captures all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a cozy, easy-to-make soup. With a perfect balance of cheesy creaminess, savory sausage, tender pasta, and crunchy garlic croutons, this dish is sure to become a family favorite for any occasion.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Soup
Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Soup is a hearty Italian-inspired soup combining savory ground Italian sausage, broken lasagna noodles, rich melted cheeses, and a flavorful tomato broth, topped with crispy garlic bread croutons for a comforting and indulgent meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup, Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
1 lb ground Italian sausage
4 cloves minced garlic
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
8 oz broken lasagna noodles
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 French bread or baguette, sliced
4 tbsp butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian herbs (such as dried parsley, oregano, or basil)
Instructions
- Brown Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until cooked. Remove excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in broth and diced tomatoes with juices. Stir in dried oregano and basil. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add broken lasagna noodles, reduce heat, and simmer 8–10 minutes until noodles are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Lower heat and fold in ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently until melted and creamy.
- For garlic bread croutons: spread softened butter mixed with minced garlic and Italian herbs on bread slices. Toast in oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy, then chop into croutons.
- Ladle soup into bowls, top with garlic bread croutons, garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
Substitute broken lasagna noodles with broken spaghetti or penne.
Use vegan cheese and plant-based sausage for a vegan option.
Try different herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl with croutons
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg