This Low-Carb Lasagna Soup is a cozy bowl of flavor without the carbs! It’s packed with ground meat, tomatoes, and plenty of cheese, making it oh-so-comforting.
When I make this soup, I can’t help but laugh. Who knew lasagna could be served as soup? It’s a fun twist that my family gobbles up every time! 🍲
I love that it comes together quickly, and you can top it with fresh herbs or extra cheese for that extra yum factor. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: I prefer Italian sausage for its extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. They work well too and still keep the dish tasty!
Crushed Tomatoes: For a fresher taste, feel free to substitute with fresh tomatoes or tomato puree. Just remember to adjust the liquid based on how chunky you want your soup to be.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives a creamy texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can swap it with a dairy-free cream cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter soup.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is fantastic for that melty topping. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Broth: I recommend homemade broth for the best flavor, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re vegetarian, a vegetable broth would be a great choice!
How Do You Make Creamy Soup Without Clumping?
In this recipe, melting cream cheese into a hot broth can be tricky if you don’t do it right. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
- Make sure to cut the cream cheese into small cubes; this helps it melt faster.
- Once the soup is simmering, reduce heat to low before adding the cream cheese to prevent it from curdling.
- Stir gently but consistently, allowing the heat to do its job until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
With these tips, your soup will come out silky smooth every time! Enjoy your Low-Carb Lasagna Soup, it’s a delightful twist on a classic.
Low-Carb Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, sliced thinly, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Low-Carb Lasagna Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes to cook. In just around 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft.
2. Add Garlic and Meat:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious aroma. Then, add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, you may want to drain some off!
3. Build the Soup Base:
Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Season it with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring everything to a nice simmer.
4. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and add in the cubed cream cheese. Stir it occasionally until the cream cheese melts completely and blends into a creamy soup.
5. Stir in the Cheeses:
Add the shredded mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese into the soup. Give it a good stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is nice and creamy.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s your chance! Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. You might like a little more salt or pepper.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the soup into warm bowls. Top each bowl with extra mozzarella or Parmesan cheese and some fresh sliced basil for a burst of flavor. Enjoy your warm and comforting low-carb twist on lasagna!
This deliciously creamy and savory soup captures all the wonderful flavors of lasagna, making it a fantastic meal without the carbs! Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would make a great leaner alternative. Just be sure to season it well since these meats can sometimes be a bit milder in flavor compared to beef or Italian sausage.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook it to avoid separating the cream cheese.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm gently on the stove.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you could use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Alternatively, you can skip it for a lighter soup, but note that it may not have the same creamy texture.
