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Delicious One-Pot Lasagna Soup in Minutes

Lasagna is one of those meals that feels like home. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. But let’s be honest, making a full pan of lasagna takes time. This One-Pot Lasagna Soup is the best! All the comforting flavors of classic lasagna, but in a rich, hearty soup that comes together fast.

This recipe keeps things simple. Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. The best part? You still get all the cheesy goodness and savory sauce, but without the hassle of layering noodles or waiting for it to bake.

Here’s what’s coming in this post:

  • Easy step-by-step instructions for making One-Pot Lasagna Soup
  • Ingredient swaps if you want to tweak the flavors or lighten it up
  • Three cooking methods so you can make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot
  • Tips for leftovers because this soup tastes even better the next day

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or making a big batch for meal prep, this soup is a go-to. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor.

This is the kind of recipe that gets pinned on Pinterest again and again, and for good reason. It’s easy, delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser.

So grab a pot, and let’s get cooking. You’ll have a big bowl of cheesy, hearty lasagna soup ready in no time!

one pot lasagna soup

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Lasagna is one of those meals that just feels cozy. But making a full pan of it? That takes forever. This One-Pot Lasagna Soup gives you all the cheesy, meaty, saucy goodness of lasagna without the extra work. One pot, simple steps, and way less cleanup.

This recipe is perfect for:

  • Busy nights when you need something quick but homemade
  • Picky eaters who love classic flavors but don’t want anything too fancy
  • One-pot meals that save time and cut down on dishes
  • Lasagna lovers who want all the flavor without layering noodles
one pot lasagna soup

What You’ll Need for This Easy One-Pot Lasagna Soup

Everything cooks in one pot, so keep it simple with these easy-to-find ingredients:

  • 1 lb extra-lean ground beef – Adds rich, meaty flavor. Swap for ground turkey or sausage if you want.
  • 1 onion, diced – Brings a little sweetness and depth to the soup.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes all the difference in flavor.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A perfect mix of herbs to give it that classic taste.
  • 1/2 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp pepper – Balances the flavors.
  • 1 jar (650mL) marinara sauce – Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce.
  • 4 cups beef broth – Gives the soup a rich, savory base.
  • 2 cups dried mafalda pasta or rotini – Mafalda looks like mini lasagna noodles, making it perfect for this soup.
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese – Adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese – Melts into the soup for that stretchy, cheesy bite.
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish – A little green on top makes it look fresh and adds extra flavor.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal the whole family will love. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love Mafalda Pasta in This Soup

There’s something about mafalda pasta that just works in One-Pot Lasagna Soup. It’s not just about taste—it’s the way it looks and feels in every bite. Those little wavy edges make it look just like lasagna noodles, which makes this soup feel even more like the real thing.

Lasagna is all about the layers, and while this soup skips the stacking, mafalda pasta brings that same vibe. It soaks up the rich, tomatoey broth, making sure every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it holds up well while cooking—not too soft, not too firm. Just the right texture for a hearty, comforting bowl of soup.

Here’s why mafalda pasta is my favorite for this dish:

  • It looks like mini lasagna noodles, which makes the soup feel more like traditional lasagna.
  • It holds onto sauce really well, so every spoonful is full of flavor.
  • It stays the perfect texture—not mushy, not tough, just right.
  • It makes the soup feel a little extra special, instead of just using any pasta.

I remember the first time I made this soup with mafalda pasta, and it was an instant hit. It’s such a small switch, but it makes a huge difference. Now, I always keep a box in my pantry for when I make this recipe.

If you can’t find mafalda pasta, rotini or broken-up lasagna noodles work too, but if you get the chance, try it with mafalda. It’s a simple swap that makes this soup even better!

crockpot recipe inside

Three Ways to Prepare

Stovetop Instructions: Quick and Easy

  1. Start with the Meat: In a large pot, sauté the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Aromatics: Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, continuing to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant.
  3. Combine Everything: Then, add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine everything well.
  4. Let it Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the pasta is cooked.
  5. Cheese It Up: Serve the soup in large bowls. Sprinkle some mozzarella over the top and add a dollop of ricotta cheese.
  6. Garnish and Enjoy: Finally, finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Slow Cooker Method: Set It and Forget It

  1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown the beef with onions and garlic for about 5 minutes, then transfer it to your slow cooker.
  2. Add Ingredients: Now, put all the other ingredients, except for the pasta and cheeses, into the slow cooker.
  3. Cook Away: Set your slow cooker on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
  4. Pasta Time: Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  5. Cheese and Serve: Once done, top with the cheeses and serve warm.

Instant Pot Instructions: For the Tech-Savvy Cook

  1. Brown in the Pot: Use the sauté feature of your Instant Pot to cook the beef, onions, and garlic for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the Rest: Throw in the remaining ingredients, except for the cheeses, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  3. Pressure Cook: Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then quickly release the pressure.
  4. Cheese Topping: Finally, serve in bowls, topped with the delicious cheeses.
one pot lasagna soup

One-Pot Lasagna Soup

InsiderMama.com
It’s a delicious, no-fuss dish that captures all the flavors of traditional lasagna with a fraction of the effort.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings 6 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb extra-lean ground beef
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp each of salt & pepper
  • 1 jar 650mL marinara sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups dried mafalda pasta or rotini
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Stovetop

  • Start with the Meat: In a large pot, sauté the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 minutes.
  • Add Aromatics: Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, continuing to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant.
  • Combine Everything: Then, add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine everything well.
  • Let it Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the pasta is cooked.
  • Cheese It Up: Serve the soup in large bowls. Sprinkle some mozzarella over the top and add a dollop of ricotta cheese.
  • Garnish and Enjoy: Finally, finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Slow Cooker

  • Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown the beef with onions and garlic for about 5 minutes, then transfer it to your slow cooker.
  • Add Ingredients: Now, put all the other ingredients, except for the pasta and cheeses, into the slow cooker.
  • Cook Away: Set your slow cooker on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
  • Pasta Time: Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Cheese and Serve: Once done, top with the cheeses and serve warm.

Instant Pot

  • Brown in the Pot: Use the sauté feature of your Instant Pot to cook the beef, onions, and garlic for 5 minutes.
  • Add the Rest: Throw in the remaining ingredients, except for the cheeses, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  • Pressure Cook: Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then quickly release the pressure.
  • Cheese Topping: Finally, serve in bowls, topped with the delicious cheeses.

Notes

Cook Time:
  • Stovetop: 25 minutes
  • Slow Cooker: 4–8 hours (plus 5 minutes to brown the meat)
  • Instant Pot: 10 minutes (including sauté time and pressure release)

How to Store and Reheat One-Pot Lasagna Soup

Leftovers of One-Pot Lasagna Soup are just as good, if not better, the next day. The flavors have more time to blend, making every spoonful extra rich and delicious. But how do you store it properly so it stays fresh?

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Once the soup cools, transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: If you want to freeze it, keep in mind that pasta can get soft when thawed. A good trick is to freeze the soup without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Tips

  • Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, add a little broth or water to loosen it up.
  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a plate, for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Slow Cooker: If reheating a big batch, let it warm on low for an hour.
  • Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to heat the soup, stirring until hot.

To freshen up leftovers, sprinkle some extra mozzarella on top and add a little fresh basil or parsley. You’ll have a bowl of One-Pot Lasagna Soup that tastes just as good as the first time!

one pot lasagna soup with toppings

What to Serve with One-Pot Lasagna Soup

This soup is hearty and filling on its own, but adding a side can take it to the next level. Here are some great pairings to round out your meal.

Bread for Dipping

  • Garlic bread – The crispy, buttery edges are perfect for soaking up every last drop.
  • Crusty Italian bread – A simple, warm slice of bread is a classic choice.
  • Cheesy breadsticks – Melty cheese and marinara flavors go hand in hand.

Salads for a Fresh Balance

  • Simple Caesar salad – Crisp romaine, parmesan, and croutons add a fresh contrast.
  • Caprese salad – Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complement the soup beautifully.
  • Garden salad – A mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch.

Extra Toppings

  • Red pepper flakes – If you like a little spice, sprinkle some on top.
  • Parmesan cheese – A little extra cheese never hurts!
  • Fresh basil or parsley – Brightens up the flavors.

Pairing One-Pot Lasagna Soup with the right sides makes for a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

ground turkey in soup pot with lasagna

How to Make One-Pot Lasagna Soup Healthier

Love One-Pot Lasagna Soup but want to lighten it up? There are plenty of easy swaps that keep all the flavor while making it a little healthier.

Swap the Meat

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
  • Go meatless and add extra mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.

Change the Pasta

  • Swap regular pasta for whole wheat pasta to add fiber.
  • Use chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein.
  • Skip the pasta and use zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.

Lighten Up the Cheese

  • Use part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk ricotta.
  • Sprinkle less mozzarella or swap for a lighter cheese like feta.
  • Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without extra fat.

Reduce the Sodium

  • Pick a low-sodium broth and marinara sauce.
  • Use fresh tomatoes instead of jarred sauce to control the salt.

Making One-Pot Lasagna Soup a little lighter doesn’t mean losing the comforting flavors. These small tweaks keep it just as tasty while adding a healthy boost!

small serving lasagna soup

Fun Ways to Customize One-Pot Lasagna Soup

One of the best things about One-Pot Lasagna Soup is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to make it your own.

Meat Choices

  • Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a bolder flavor.
  • Try half beef, half sausage for the best of both worlds.
  • Want a vegetarian version? Swap the meat for mushrooms or lentils.

Cheese Variations

  • Love cheese? Add a sprinkle of parmesan or a handful of cheddar for a twist.
  • Want it extra creamy? Stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream at the end.

Pasta Options

  • Mafalda pasta is my favorite because it looks like little lasagna noodles.
  • Rotini, penne, or even broken lasagna sheets all work great too.

Extra Add-Ins

  • Spinach or kale – Stir in a handful at the end for extra greens.
  • Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers – Sauté with the onions and garlic for added texture.
  • A splash of red wine – Adds depth to the tomato sauce.

No matter how you make it, One-Pot Lasagna Soup is one of those meals that’s easy to adapt. Try something new and make it your own!

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Final Thoughts

If you love lasagna but don’t love the time it takes to make, One-Pot Lasagna Soup is the answer. It’s rich, hearty, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of traditional lasagna—without the layering, baking, or extra dishes.

This post covered everything you need to know about making this soup:

  • Three easy cooking methods – stovetop, slow cooker, and Instant Pot
  • Why mafalda pasta is a great choice – it looks just like lasagna noodles and holds onto flavor
  • How to store and reheat leftovers – because this soup tastes even better the next day
  • What to serve with it – from garlic bread to fresh salads
  • Healthier swaps – like using ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, or less cheese
  • Fun ways to customize – extra veggies, different meats, or a splash of red wine for depth

One of the best things about One-Pot Lasagna Soup is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you go with classic ingredients or mix things up, it’s always a cozy, satisfying meal.

This is the kind of recipe that’s perfect for saving on Pinterest. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to feel like comfort food at its best.

So grab a pot, pick your favorite method, and get cooking. Whether you make it as written or try a fun twist, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

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Hi! I'm Jen, and I'm thrilled you stopped by!

I am a certified life coach, mother of five, wife, founder of the non-profit Eye on Vision Foundation, entrepreneur, Christian, and friend. I live, play, work and worship in the Orlando, Florida area.

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