Sage Lasagna Soup

Discover pure comfort in our Sage Lasagna Soup. This hearty recipe combines all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna – rich tomatoes, aromatic sage, tender noodles, and creamy ricotta – in one easy pot. It’s a deeply satisfying and wholesome meal. Experience its robust flavor and soothing texture; an instant favorite for any cozy night.

Why You’ll Love This Sage Lasagna Soup Recipe

• Easy Comfort: All lasagna flavors, one-pot ease.
• Flavorful: Aromatic sage creates a unique, comforting taste.
• Wholesome: Packed with nourishing veggies, satisfying and balanced.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing.
• 1 large Yellow Onion: Finely diced to meld seamlessly into the broth.
• 4 cloves Garlic: Minced for a pungent, aromatic foundation.
• 1 lb Ground Italian Sausage (or lean ground turkey/beef): Adds depth and savory richness. For a vegetarian Sage Lasagna Soup, use lentils or plant-based crumble.
• 1 tsp Dried Sage: Or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped, for that signature earthy aroma.
• 1 (28 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes: The cornerstone of our rich tomato broth.
• 1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes: For texture and additional tomato flavor.
• 6 cups Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth): Opt for low-sodium to control seasoning.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the sage beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle kick.
• 12 Lasagna Noodles: Broken into 1-2 inch pieces. Use oven-ready for quicker cooking if preferred.
• 5 oz Fresh Baby Spinach: Wilts quickly, adding color and nutrients.
• 15 oz Ricotta Cheese: Full-fat for creaminess, or part-skim for a lighter option.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Plus extra for serving.
• 1 large Egg: To bind the ricotta mixture and prevent curdling.
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a fresh finish.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.

Substitutions & Variations

Embrace flexibility in your kitchen! This Sage Lasagna Soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences, always keeping wellness in mind. Experiment with these healthy swaps to make it uniquely yours:

• Gluten-Free: Easily swap traditional lasagna noodles for your favorite gluten-free lasagna sheets, broken into pieces. Check package directions for cooking times.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ground meat entirely. Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini with the onion and garlic for a vegetable-rich base. Replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based crumble or 1 cup of cooked brown lentils. For a vegan Sage Lasagna Soup, use dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan alternatives, and vegetable broth.
• Leaner Protein: Instead of Italian sausage, use lean ground turkey or chicken. Season it with a pinch of fennel seeds and extra dried oregano to mimic the Italian sausage flavor.
• Extra Greens: Boost the nutrition by adding kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach. Just be sure to chop tougher greens finely and add them a little earlier to allow them to tenderize.
• Dairy-Free: Use a cashew-based ricotta alternative or silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and garlic powder for a creamy topping. Omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based version.
• Spicier Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes to your liking, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bolder heat profile.

If you’re looking for a cozy twist on lasagna, check out Classic One-Pot Lasagna Soup. It’s a great way to make lasagna flavors simple and hassle-free.

Equipment You’ll Need

• A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (5-6 quart)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, egg, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and dried sage, cooking for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground Italian sausage (or chosen protein) to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and cook until fully browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
4. Build the Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken (or vegetable) broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This step is crucial for a flavorful Sage Lasagna Soup.
5. Cook the Noodles: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup back to a rolling boil. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. Stir frequently to prevent them from sticking together.
6. Add Spinach: Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the fresh baby spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts, which usually takes only 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot Sage Lasagna Soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the prepared ricotta mixture and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately and savor every comforting spoonful of this incredible Sage Lasagna Soup.

Once you’ve mastered the ricotta mixture, elevate your dinner with The Best Chicken Marsala Recipe You’ll Ever Try. This dish complements the comforting nature of lasagna soup beautifully.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles until just al dente. They will continue to soften in the hot soup, and you don’t want them to become mushy. Adding them directly to the soup ensures they absorb all the delicious flavors.
• Bloom the Sage: Adding the dried sage along with the garlic for a minute before adding liquids helps to “bloom” the herb, intensifying its flavor and aroma.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your Sage Lasagna Soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and even a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also brighten the flavors.
• Temper the Ricotta: While the egg helps stabilize the ricotta, ensure your soup isn’t at a rapid boil when you’re about to serve it with the ricotta topping. The heat is fine, but extreme boiling could cause the egg to cook unevenly. Alternatively, you can stir a ladleful of hot soup into the ricotta mixture before adding it to the bowl to temper it.
• Fresh Herbs are Key: While dried sage is used in the soup base, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and possibly even a few fresh sage leaves for garnish really elevates the dish, adding brightness and visual appeal to your comforting soup.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Sage Lasagna Soup makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick, comforting meal throughout the week. Proper storage ensures it tastes just as delicious the next day.

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The noodles may absorb more liquid and soften further upon storage.
• Freezing: For best results, consider freezing the soup without the cooked lasagna noodles and ricotta topping. Cooked noodles can become very mushy when thawed and reheated. If you plan to freeze the entire Sage Lasagna Soup, add fresh, al dente noodles when reheating. Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of extra chicken or vegetable broth to thin the soup back to your desired consistency, as the noodles tend to soak up liquid. If frozen, reheat slowly from thawed state. Add fresh ricotta and Parmesan when serving.

For those who love experimenting with flavors, try White Chicken Lasagna Soup as a delicious alternative. It’s a perfect option for meal prep and ensures you have comforting food ready for the week.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This hearty Sage Lasagna Soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a few simple, wholesome sides can elevate the dining experience and create a truly balanced spread. Here are some of Emma’s favorite pairings:

• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich, savory broth. A slice of artisanal sourdough or a homemade garlic bread makes an excellent companion to this Sage Lasagna Soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper add extra nutrition and a delightful texture. Their slight char and sweetness complement the earthy notes of the Sage Lasagna Soup.
• Side of White Beans: A simple dish of cannellini beans sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of rosemary can add another layer of protein and fiber.
• A Glass of Wine: For the adults, a light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir or a crisp white such as a Sauvignon Blanc can beautifully complement the herbaceous flavors of this Sage Lasagna Soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Sage Lasagna Soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground Italian sausage and use a plant-based crumble, lentils, or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini instead. Ensure you use vegetable broth. For a vegan version of this Sage Lasagna Soup, also swap out the ricotta and Parmesan for dairy-free alternatives like cashew ricotta or a nutritional yeast-based cheese substitute.

How can I prevent the lasagna noodles from becoming too soggy?

The best way to keep your noodles from becoming overly soggy in Sage Lasagna Soup is to cook them until they are just al dente. If you anticipate having a lot of leftovers or prefer to prepare the soup in advance, you can cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls just before serving.

This prevents them from soaking up too much broth over time. If reheating leftovers, you might also find that adding a splash of extra broth helps to revive the texture.

Can I freeze Sage Lasagna Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this Sage Lasagna Soup, but with a small caveat for optimal results. It’s best to freeze the soup base without the cooked noodles and the ricotta topping. Noodles can get quite mushy after thawing and reheating.

If you choose to freeze the entire soup with noodles, ensure they are cooked very al dente. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding fresh noodles and ricotta just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Sage Lasagna Soup incorporates the delicious elements of traditional lasagna into a one-pot meal, making it an ideal choice for comfort food lovers. This hearty soup blends flavors beautifully, showcasing the aromatic qualities of herbs like sage while offering a satisfying and wholesome dining experience; explore more about this dish in the context of soups.

Final Thoughts

This Sage Lasagna Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm embrace, a testament to slow-living. Each spoonful connects you to wholesome ingredients, bringing joy and comfort to your table. A perfect culinary hug on any evening, celebrating homemade goodness and the art of simple pleasure, truly embodying the spirit of this comforting dish.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Sage Lasagna Soup

This Sage Lasagna Soup combines all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna – rich tomatoes, aromatic sage, tender noodles, and creamy ricotta – in one easy pot. A deeply satisfying and wholesome meal, perfect for any cozy night.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 420

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 large Yellow Onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 lb Ground Italian Sausage (or lean ground turkey/beef or lentils/plant-based crumble)
• 1 tsp Dried Sage (or 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped)
• 1 (28 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes
• 6 cups Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth)
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• 12 Lasagna Noodles, broken into 1-2 inch pieces
• 5 oz Fresh Baby Spinach
• 15 oz Ricotta Cheese
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 large Egg
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, egg, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and dried sage, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground Italian sausage (or chosen protein) to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken (or vegetable) broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and gently simmer for at least 15-20 minutes.
5. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the soup back to a boil. Add broken lasagna noodles and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
6. Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the ricotta mixture and extra grated Parmesan cheese, and serve.

Notes

Don’t overcook noodles to prevent mushiness. Bloom the sage by adding it with garlic before liquids. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container.