This Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup packs a spicy punch with zesty tomato sauce, tender noodles, and cheesy goodness all in one bowl! It’s like your favorite lasagna turned into a cozy soup.
I love how comforting this dish is, especially on chilly nights. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy slurping noodles? It’s a fun twist that makes everyone happy! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is essential for sautéing the onions and garlic. You can swap it with avocado oil for a different flavor or if you prefer a higher smoke point.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth, but you could also use shallots or even leeks for a milder taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount for your preferred spice level. If you like it milder, use a pinch, or replace it with smoked paprika for a different kind of warmth.
Italian Sausage: This adds heartiness to the soup. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try mushrooms or lentils for a similar texture.
Marinara Sauce: Look for a spicy version if you can. If unavailable, you can mix regular marinara with a bit of chili paste or fresh chili for a kick.
Lasagna Noodles: Any pasta shape works here! Try using shells or broken fettuccine if you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand.
Ricotta Cheese: This provides creaminess. Substitute cottage cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Fresh Basil: Adds freshness and aroma. If you don’t have it, dried basil is fine; just use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has Perfect Texture?
The texture of your lasagna soup is key! Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Cook the onion until translucent to build a flavorful base. It should be soft and slightly sweet.
- Don’t rush the simmering step! Letting it bubble gently allows the noodles to absorb the flavors and soften perfectly.
- Stir in the cheeses at the end to keep them creamy. Stir gently to avoid overmixing.
- If adding greens like spinach, add them towards the end to keep them vibrant and not mushy.
With these tips and swaps, you’ll create a comforting bowl of Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup that suits your taste and kitchen! Enjoy! 🍲
Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (optional, can use spicy or sweet)
- 4 cups marinara sauce (preferably arrabbiata style or spicy tomato sauce)
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh spinach or kale for added greens
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. Total time is about 40 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This helps to build a flavor base for your soup.
2. Add Garlic and Spice:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until you can smell the garlic—this means it’s ready to go!
3. Cook the Sausage:
If you’re using Italian sausage, add it to the pot now. Continue cooking, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it away.
4. Combine the Sauces:
Now, pour in the marinara sauce and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Add Noodles:
Once boiling, toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking.
6. Stir in the Cheeses:
After the noodles are cooked, stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Mix until the cheeses melt into the soup, giving it a rich, creamy texture.
7. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’d like, throw in some fresh spinach or kale during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to wilt it down. This will add some extra greens and color!
8. Serve with Love:
Ladle the hearty soup into bowls. To make it extra delicious, garnish with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top.
9. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve hot alongside slices of crusty toasted bread. It’s perfect for dipping! Enjoy every spicy, cheesy spoonful of your Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup!
This soup is a wonderful, cozy dish that brings all the flavors of lasagna into a warm bowl, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to follow the cooking times specified on the gluten-free pasta package, as they may vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens up too much.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the noodles fresh right before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. You can make the soup base ahead and then add the noodles when you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can use cottage cheese for a similar texture, or cream cheese for a richer taste. Just blend it a bit to smooth out any clumps before stirring into the soup.
