High-Protein Lasagna Soup: A Cozy One-Pot Wonder

High-Protein Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights when you crave something hearty but don’t have the time (or energy) to stack noodles and sauce like you’re auditioning for The Great Lasagna Bake-Off. This soup delivers all those classic Italian flavors—savory beef, tangy tomato broth, tender pasta, and creamy cheese—in one cozy, protein-packed bowl. It’s a one-pot wonder that goes from stovetop to table in under an hour.

Think of it as lasagna’s easygoing cousin who shows up in a single pot and still manages to steal the spotlight. And if you’re watching your protein or just trying to keep dinner balanced, this soup’s got your back with over 30 grams of protein per serving. Grab your spoon, and let’s make this bowl of comfort magic happen.

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What is High-Protein Lasagna Soup?

High-Protein Lasagna Soup is a delicious twist on the traditional layered lasagna—just easier, quicker, and a lot less cleanup. Instead of spending hours layering noodles, sauce, and cheese, everything simmers together in a single pot, creating a rich, tomato-based broth that’s full of beefy goodness and Italian herbs. The result? A deeply satisfying, savory soup that tastes like your favorite baked pasta dish but with a fraction of the effort.

With lean ground beef as the protein hero, every spoonful feels both hearty and nourishing. And don’t skip that creamy ricotta and sprinkle of Parmesan on top—it’s what gives this dish that “I can’t believe it’s not baked” flavor. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping on Sundays, it’s lasagna without the stress.

Reasons to Try High-Protein Lasagna Soup

Why should this High-Protein Lasagna Soup be next on your dinner list? First, it’s a time-saver—you get lasagna-level flavor without dirtying every dish in your kitchen. Second, it’s a balanced meal in a bowl: protein, carbs, and veggies all cozied up together. Third, it’s family-friendly. Even picky eaters can’t resist a bowl filled with tender noodles, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—you can use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Pair it with crusty garlic bread, and you’ve got dinner perfection. And hey, on those nights when you just want something that feels like a hug in a bowl, this is the one. For more cozy soup ideas, check out my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup or the hearty Hamburger Macaroni Soup—both reader favorites!

Ingredients Needed to Make High-Protein Lasagna Soup

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean)
• ½ cup onion, minced
• 2 tbsp garlic, minced
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes (low-sodium)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups reginetti pasta or broken lasagna noodles (about 5 oz dry)
  For serving (optional):
• ¼ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• Fresh basil, torn

Instructions to Make High-Protein Lasagna Soup

If you’re ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy, hearty goodness, here’s your Step-by-Step guide to making High-Protein Lasagna Soup—a cozy, one-pot meal that’ll make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria (without the mountain of dishes afterward). Each step is simple, practical, and easy to follow, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just trying to feed the family fast.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Let’s kick things off by warming up your pot. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil into a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced onion and cook it for about 2–3 minutes until it softens and turns slightly translucent. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling like cozy comfort. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn. This quick sauté step lays the flavorful foundation for your High-Protein Lasagna Soup, giving it that rich, home-cooked depth that makes everyone ask, “What’s for dinner?”

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, check out my Healthy Ground Beef Pasta Dish—it uses similar seasoning tricks to bring out the best in lean beef dishes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Now it’s time for the protein star of this recipe—lean ground beef. Add one pound of 93% lean ground beef to the pot with your sautéed aromatics. Using a wooden spoon, break up the meat as it cooks, making sure there are no large chunks. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the beef is no longer pink and starts to develop a light golden brown crust. This is where the magic happens! Browning adds depth and that signature lasagna flavor. If your beef releases extra fat, go ahead and drain it carefully. You want the soup to stay rich but not greasy.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try swapping in ground turkey—my Healthy Turkey Rice Soup shows how lean poultry can still taste incredibly hearty.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Here’s where your kitchen really starts smelling like Italy. Pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and stir well. Then, add your bay leaf, dried basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything together so those herbs can bloom in the warm tomato base. Slowly pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

This Step-by-Step phase is all about letting the ingredients mingle and create a balanced, savory broth. The longer it simmers, the richer it becomes. If you’ve got time, let it bubble gently for an extra five minutes—it’s worth it.

Want to know more about getting that perfect tomato flavor? I share my go-to tips for cooking with canned tomatoes in the Creamy Easy Marry Me Chicken post—it’s all about layering acidity with sweetness.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Once your soup is simmering beautifully, it’s time for the noodles. Add two cups of reginetti pasta (or broken lasagna noodles) right into the pot. Stir well so the noodles don’t clump together or stick to the bottom. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the pasta cooks, it soaks up that seasoned tomato broth, becoming tender and infused with flavor.

Keep a close eye on the texture—Step by Step, check the pasta at the 10-minute mark. You want it al dente (tender but still slightly firm to the bite). Once it’s cooked perfectly, remove the bay leaf and give your soup a good stir.

If you love comforting pasta soups, you’ll adore my Italian Pastina Soup—another quick, cozy dish that warms you up on busy nights.

Step 5: Adjust and Season to Taste

Before you serve, taste your High-Protein Lasagna Soup. Need more salt? A pinch of sea salt can make all the difference. Want more kick? Add a dash more red pepper flakes. If the broth feels too thick (the pasta sometimes absorbs extra liquid), splash in a bit of beef broth or water to loosen it up. This Step-by-Step taste test makes sure your final bowl is perfectly balanced—rich, savory, and comforting.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Now comes the best part—toppings! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top, and finish with a few torn basil leaves for color and freshness. As the ricotta melts into the hot broth, it creates that creamy, cheesy texture that makes every bite irresistible.

For extra indulgence, serve this with a slice of garlic bread or warm focaccia for dipping. And if you want to make a complete comfort meal, pair it with my Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese—because yes, double comfort food is a thing!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your High-Protein Lasagna Soup is now ready to steal the show! Each spoonful is a delicious mix of savory beef, tomato-rich broth, and creamy cheese. Serve it hot, share it with family, or portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week. If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), check out my Storage and Reheating Tips section to keep that just-made flavor.

What to Serve with High-Protein Lasagna Soup

A big bowl of High-Protein Lasagna Soup is satisfying on its own, but if you’re in the mood to make it a full meal, serve it with garlic bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A crisp Caesar salad or simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch. Want to stick with cozy vibes? Try my Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese as a creamy side or my Easy Glazed Carrots for something sweet and buttery. And don’t forget dessert—my No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake makes the perfect ending.

Key Tips for Making High-Protein Lasagna Soup

1. Don’t overcook the pasta. Remember, it’ll continue to soften a bit in the hot broth after cooking.
2. Use quality crushed tomatoes. They make or break the flavor, so go for a brand with rich, natural sweetness.
3. Add more veggies. Sneak in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms if you want extra nutrition.
4. Meal prep magic: This soup reheats beautifully, so make a double batch and portion it for lunches.
5. For a creamier version, stir in a spoonful of ricotta right before serving—it gives that signature lasagna creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips for High-Protein Lasagna Soup

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better overnight. If you plan to keep it longer, freeze it (without the cheese topping) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up since the pasta tends to soak up liquid. Heat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute bursts until steaming hot. For best results, add fresh cheese and basil right before serving—because no one likes soggy herbs or overcooked pasta.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based crumble and use veggie broth instead.
Can I use other pasta shapes? Yes, any short pasta works—rotini, shells, or bowties all hold up well.
How can I make it creamier? Stir in a bit of heavy cream or a scoop of ricotta for an indulgent touch.
Is this freezer-friendly? Definitely. Just cool it completely before freezing and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Lasagna Soup is everything you love about classic lasagna, minus the stress of layering and baking. It’s hearty, comforting, and quick—perfect for anyone juggling a busy life but still craving homemade goodness. With its rich tomato broth, high protein content, and cheesy finish, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table smile. Next time you’re craving Italian comfort but need something fast, this is your go-to recipe.

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