Bowl of Lasagna Soup with Orzo, featuring a rich tomato-based broth, hearty meat, creamy melted cheese, and tender orzo pasta, garnished with basil and parmesan.

Easy Lasagna Soup with Orzo Recipe: Perfect for Cozy Nights

Spread the love

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of a bowl of hearty soup when the weather cools down or you simply need a delicious pick-me-up. If you adore the rich flavors of lasagna but find yourself short on time or energy, this recipe for lasagna soup with orzo will be your new go-to. With all the beloved ingredients of traditional lasagna turned into an easy, one-pot meal, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy dinner without the hassle. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

What Is Lasagna Soup with Orzo?

A Modern Twist on a Classic Dish

Imagine all the savory goodness of lasagna—the tangy tomato sauce, hearty meat, creamy cheese, and aromatic Italian herbs—served in a warm, flavorful broth. That’s exactly what Lasagna Soup with Orzo offers, with a comforting twist. By swapping lasagna noodles for orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s quicker to cook, easier to serve, and just as satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients for Lasagna Soup with Orzo: fresh tomatoes, ground beef, onions, garlic, Italian herbs, orzo pasta, parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and tomato sauce.
Get ready to make Lasagna Soup with Orzo! These fresh ingredients—tomatoes, ground beef, orzo pasta, and more—come together to create a comforting, flavorful dish.

Simple Ingredients for Big Flavors

Creating a memorable bowl of lasagna soup doesn’t require a long shopping list. Here’s what you’ll need:

Table of Ingredients

IngredientQuantityNotes
Ground beef1 lbSubstitute with turkey for a lighter version.
Orzo pasta1 cupAdds a unique texture.
Onion1 medium, dicedEssential for the base flavor.
Garlic cloves3, mincedEnhances the Italian profile.
Tomato sauce2 cupsChoose a quality brand.
Chicken or beef broth4 cupsAdjust based on desired consistency.
Italian seasoning1 tbspFor that authentic taste.
Mozzarella cheese½ cup shreddedOptional topping.

Additional Toppings

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Easy Lasagna Soup with Orzo

You’ll be amazed at how simple and quick this recipe is. Follow these steps:

  1. Prepare the Base: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant.
  2. Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Build the Soup: Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken or beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Add the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the orzo is tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Finish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and serve hot. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup with Orzo

Avoiding Common Mistakes

How to Stop Lasagna from Falling Apart

  • Using orzo instead of traditional lasagna noodles helps maintain a consistent texture without becoming overly soft or breaking apart.
  • Cook the orzo to al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly in the soup.

How Long Can You Store Lasagna Soup in the Refrigerator?

  • Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for no more than 3 days.
  • When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain the desired consistency.

Variations and Additions

Make It Your Own

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas:

  • Traditional Lasagna Soup with Orzo: Stick with classic ingredients like ground beef, mozzarella, and tomato sauce for a nostalgic flavor.
  • 5-Ingredient Lasagna Soup: Simplify by using just ground beef, orzo, tomato sauce, broth, and mozzarella cheese.
  • Easy Lasagna Soup with Ground Beef: Ground beef is a flavorful and accessible protein, but you can also try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Vegetarian Lasagna Soup: Swap the meat for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
  • Creamy Lasagna Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving for a richer texture.
  • Spicy Lasagna Soup: Add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Pairing Suggestions

What to Serve with Lasagna Soup

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:

  • Bread: Garlic breadsticks, focaccia, or a simple loaf of crusty bread.
  • Salads: A fresh Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Beverages: Pair with a robust red wine like Chianti or a refreshing iced tea.
  • Desserts: End your meal with a classic tiramisu or a scoop of gelato.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Lasagne and Lasagna?

“In American English, ‘lasagna’ is used to refer to both the dish and the noodles, whereas ‘lasagne’ is the Italian plural form, usually referring to the pasta sheets.

How Many Lasagna Noodles Are in a 16 oz Box?

A 16 oz box of lasagna noodles usually contains 12-16 noodles, depending on the brand. However, this recipe eliminates the need for lasagna sheets by using orzo pasta instead.

How Long Is Lasagna Soup Good for in the Fridge?

Properly stored, lasagna soup remains fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding broth if necessary to restore the original consistency.

Can You Freeze Lasagna Soup?

Yes! Let the soup cool fully before placing it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on a standard 1-cup portion):

NutrientAmount
Calories320
Protein20g
Carbohydrates28g
Fat12g
Fiber3g
Sodium680mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.

Conclusion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about the way this lasagna soup with orzo brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal effort. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for classic Italian cuisine while offering a quick and modern twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this soup is sure to delight everyone.

Did you try this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate it! If you love this dish, share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too. For more easy and delicious recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a tasty update!

Have You Tried Our Recipe Yet?

0.0
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.


Spread the love

Similar Posts