Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup

Embrace the ultimate comfort fusion with our Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup. This warming, hearty dish takes everything you adore about classic lasagna and transforms it into a lusciously rich soup, perfect for cozy evenings. Featuring tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a vibrant tomato broth, it’s crowned with creamy, melted cheeses.

Every spoonful delivers a delightful kick of spice balanced with comforting textures, promising an unforgettable meal. Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup, a culinary adventure that brings joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why our Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup will become your new favorite:

• Effortless Comfort: Enjoy all the deep, layered flavors of lasagna without the traditional fuss of baking and intricate layering. This soup delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
• Flavorful Fusion: Experience a perfect symphony of spicy, savory, and creamy textures in every bite. The bold Italian sausage, tangy tomatoes, and rich cheeses create a harmonious culinary dance.
• Eco-Conscious Customization: A fantastic canvas for anti-waste cooking! Easily incorporate leftover vegetables or transform it into a plant-based delight. This adaptable Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup is both delicious and mindful.
• Quick Weeknight Win: Get a hearty, satisfying meal on the table significantly faster than preparing traditional lasagna. Ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup begins with selecting vibrant, high-quality ingredients. Think fresh, flavorful, and perhaps even locally sourced where possible to truly elevate your culinary creation. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, good quality for sautéing.
• Spicy Italian Sausage: 1 pound, casing removed. Choose a high-quality brand; for a plant-based twist, opt for spicy vegan Italian sausage.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped, providing a sweet aromatic base for your Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for that unmistakable aromatic depth.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28-ounce) can, good quality. San Marzano are always a fantastic choice for their rich, sweet flavor profile.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons, to intensify the tomato base and add umami.
• Vegetable Broth: 6 cups, low sodium. You can also use chicken broth if preferred.
• Dried Lasagna Noodles: 6-8 sheets, broken into 1-2 inch pieces. Don’t use fresh, as they will get too soft too quickly in this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup.
• Fresh Spinach: 5 ounces, roughly chopped. Adds a touch of color and healthy greens.
• Part-Skim Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup. For creamy dollops of pure comfort in your soup.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded. A blend of part-skim and whole milk offers the best melt.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated, plus more for serving. Essential for savory depth.
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped, plus extra for garnish. Its fresh, peppery notes are key.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. A classic Italian herb that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and sausage.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon, or more to taste, for that essential spicy kick.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, always adjust seasoning to your preference.

Substitutions & Variations

One of the beauties of this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup, in my eco-conscious and creative kitchen, lies in its adaptability. It’s a fantastic recipe to personalize and optimize for your pantry and preferences, while also embracing healthy swaps and anti-waste principles. Let your creativity flow!

• Protein Power-Ups: If spicy Italian sausage isn’t your jam, or you’re leaning plant-forward, swap it for crumbled plant-based Italian sausage. Ground turkey or lean ground chicken are also excellent, lighter alternatives. For a vegetarian option, seasoned brown lentils or crumbled firm tofu sautéed with Italian spices work beautifully, making your Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup incredibly versatile.
• Greens Galore: Don’t limit yourself to spinach! Kale, Swiss chard, or even finely chopped broccoli rabe can add wonderful nutrients and a slightly different flavor profile. Use what’s seasonal or what you have on hand to reduce food waste.
• Cheesy Choices: For dairy-free versions, use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella alternatives. They melt and swirl wonderfully, maintaining the creamy texture of the Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup. A touch of nutritional yeast can also enhance the “cheesy” flavor.
• Spice it Up (or Down): Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your palate. For more heat, add an extra pinch. For a milder soup, simply omit them. A dash of smoked paprika can add a different kind of warmth.
• Veggie Boost: To make your Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup even heartier and more colorful, consider adding finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic. This is a brilliant way to use up those extra vegetables in your fridge.
• Pasta Alternatives: While lasagna noodles are classic, you can experiment with other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even small shells for a different texture. Just ensure they are cooked al dente in the soup.

For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup can be personalized in countless ways. If you’re looking for another irresistible recipe, check out The Best Chicken Marsala Recipe You’ll Ever Try.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (at least 5-6 quart capacity)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this flavorful Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup is a straightforward process, breaking down the beloved dish into an accessible, single-pot masterpiece. Follow these steps for a truly delicious experience:

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage (or your chosen protein alternative), breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until thoroughly browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Build the Base: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to deepen in color and flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds incredible depth to your Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup.
4. Add Pasta: Once simmering, carefully add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir well to ensure they are submerged and don’t stick together. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are al dente, about 8-10 minutes. The cooking time may vary based on your noodle brand.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach until it wilts, which only takes a minute or two.
6. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
7. Finish and Serve: Ladle the hot Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup into individual bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the creamy cheese mixture, a sprinkle of the remaining shredded mozzarella, and a garnish of fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy the magic of this fusion dish.

Making this comforting soup is simple, and the process breaks down lasagna into a delightful one-pot dish. If you enjoy this style, you’ll want to explore White Chicken Lasagna Soup for a different twist.

Pro Tips for Success

To ensure your Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips from my kitchen:

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep a close eye on your lasagna noodles. They should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Overcooked noodles can become mushy and absorb too much broth, altering the soup’s texture.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Broths and tomatoes vary in sodium content, so you might need to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Since this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup relies on a few key ingredients, using good quality crushed tomatoes and flavorful Italian sausage makes a significant difference in the final taste.
• The Cheese Swirl: Instead of stirring all the cheese directly into the pot, serving it on top allows each diner to experience the creamy ricotta and melting mozzarella in distinct, satisfying dollops. This also keeps the soup base from becoming too thick or gritty.
• Prevent Sticking: Stir the noodles frequently after adding them to the soup to prevent them from clumping together or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Embrace Anti-Waste: If you have any vegetable scraps (onion ends, carrot peels), save them to make your own vegetable broth, enhancing flavor and reducing waste for future batches of Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup is fantastic for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh and delicious.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Note that the noodles will continue to absorb liquid and may become softer over time.
• Freezing: For best results, if you plan to freeze portions of Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup, I recommend freezing the soup base separately from the noodles, or undercooking the noodles slightly. The texture of pasta can change quite a bit after freezing and thawing. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating (Stovetop): Gently reheat the soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Reheating (Microwave): For individual servings, microwave on medium power, stirring every minute, until heated through. Again, you might need to add a little liquid.

This Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to savor it throughout the week. For more one-pot ideas, be sure to check out Classic One-Pot Lasagna Soup.

What to Serve With This Recipe

While this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup is a complete and hearty meal on its own, pairing it with fresh, vibrant sides elevates the dining experience. As someone who loves colorful and balanced meals, I suggest options that complement its richness without overpowering it.

• Crusty Bread: A classic choice! A warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. Consider making your own garlic bread for an extra treat.
• Fresh Green Salad: A simple, vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness. Think mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: For a wholesome and colorful addition, serve alongside a medley of roasted vegetables. Asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, or even brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper make a fantastic, nutritious side.
• Garlic Knots: If you’re feeling indulgent, homemade or store-bought garlic knots are always a hit. They offer a soft, buttery, and garlicky counterpoint to the spicy soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based Italian sausage alternative, seasoned brown lentils, or crumbled firm tofu. For a vegan version of Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup, use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, and dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. It adapts beautifully while maintaining its rich, comforting essence.

How can I adjust the spice level in my Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup?

The spice level in this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup is entirely customizable. For more heat, add an extra pinch or two of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. If you prefer a milder soup, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. You can also choose a mild Italian sausage instead of spicy for a less fiery flavor.

Can I prepare this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup in advance?

Yes, you can certainly prepare parts of this Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup in advance! You can cook the sausage and prepare the broth base a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to serve, reheat the broth base, add the cooked noodles and spinach, and then incorporate the sausage. This helps prevent the noodles from becoming too soft if they sit in the soup for too long. However, the cheese mixture is best made fresh.

Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup blends classic Italian flavors in a hearty soup format, making it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Learn more about this popular Italian dish and its variations through lasagna.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace culinary creativity, savor comforting flavors, and share joy around the table. Its vibrant profile and hearty embrace make it a dish you’ll return to again and again, a true celebration of delicious and mindful eating.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

(Estimates based on 6 servings)

Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup

Embrace the ultimate comfort fusion with our Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna Soup. This warming, hearty dish takes everything you adore about classic lasagna and transforms it into a lusciously rich soup, perfect for cozy evenings. Featuring tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a vibrant tomato broth, it’s crowned with creamy, melted cheeses.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 6 cups vegetable broth, low sodium
• 6-8 sheets dried lasagna noodles, broken into 1-2 inch pieces
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining olive oil, chopped onion, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes and broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.
4. Add broken lasagna noodles and simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
5. Return sausage to the pot and stir in spinach until wilted.
6. In a small bowl, combine ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, and ¼ cup Parmesan, seasoning lightly.
7. Ladle soup into bowls, topping with cheese mixture, remaining mozzarella, and fresh basil.

Notes

Don’t overcook the noodles. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Use quality ingredients for the best flavor.