Savor the hearty goodness of high protein lasagna soup that’s simple to make and deliciously satisfying! On those chilly evenings when you crave something cozy yet substantial, this recipe has got your back. Combining the comforting layers of classic lasagna with the soul-warming appeal of a one-pot meal, every spoonful feels like a warm hug on a plate. The lean ground turkey (or chicken if you prefer) provides an extra protein boost, while the trio of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates that irresistibly creamy mouthfeel reminiscent of bubbling lasagna fresh from the oven. It’s an ingenious twist on a traditional favorite, making it perfect for anyone who loves lasagna but is short on time or simply looking to shake things up.
Beyond its delicious taste, this high protein lasagna soup is a versatile weeknight wonder. With just 15 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes to cook, it’s ideal for busy nights or weekend meal prep when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. The aromatics—diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a touch of crushed red pepper—build layers of flavor that mingle beautifully with tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and savory chicken broth. As the broken lasagna noodles cook right in the broth, they release a subtle starchiness that gently thickens the soup, giving it a luxuriously rich texture. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil at the end for that bright finish, and you have a bowl of comfort that’s as nutritious as it is tasty, clocking in around 450 calories per serving.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HIGH PROTEIN LASAGNA SOUP
Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s take a closer look at the stars of this dish. Each ingredient plays a unique role, contributing texture, flavor, or that satisfying protein punch. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Olive oil
Provides a flavorful base for sautéing aromatics and browning meat. A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity note and helps extract maximum flavor from onions and garlic.
- Lean ground turkey or chicken
Delivers a high-protein component without excess fat, keeping the soup light yet fulfilling. Its mild taste soaks up spices and tomato undertones perfectly.
- Onion
Adds natural sweetness and depth. When diced and softened, it forms the flavor backbone alongside garlic.
- Garlic
Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth. Minced cloves release oils that enhance the overall savory profile.
- Dried oregano
Contributes earthy, herbaceous tones reminiscent of Italian cooking essentials. It melds beautifully with tomato flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Offers a gentle kick of heat, balancing the creaminess of the cheese. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Tomato paste
Provides concentrated tomato flavor and thickness. Helps deepen the color and richness of the soup base.
- Crushed tomatoes
Forms the hearty tomato foundation. A 28-ounce can ensures plenty of tangy, juicy goodness in every spoonful.
- Chicken broth
Creates the soup’s liquid body. Opt for low-sodium broth if you want to control the salt balance.
- Lasagna noodles
Broken into bite-sized pieces, they transform into tender pasta ribbons that cook directly in the broth, absorbing flavors as they swell.
- Ricotta cheese
Swirled in at serving time, it delivers creamy pockets that contrast with the broth and noodles, adding a delicate richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Melts in luscious strings atop each bowl, providing gooey, comforting cheesy bites.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Sprinkled over the top for a sharp, nutty finish. It elevates the final taste with its salty complexity.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors. Adjust according to personal preference.
- Chopped fresh basil leaves
Add bright herbal notes and a pop of color when folded in just before serving.
HOW TO MAKE HIGH PROTEIN LASAGNA SOUP
Get ready to transform these pantry and fridge staples into a soul-satisfying masterpiece. The process is straightforward, perfect for home cooks at any skill level. Follow along step by step to ensure every element melds harmoniously, creating that perfect balance of savory broth, tender noodles, and gooey cheese.
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s nicely browned, about five minutes. Use a spoon or spatula to crumble the meat as it cooks, ensuring uniform browning. Once done, drain any excess fat for a leaner finish.
2. Stir in the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent, roughly two to three minutes. Add the dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Incorporate the tomato paste, mixing until it’s fully combined and fragrant, about one minute.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and let it simmer until slightly thickened, about ten minutes. This step deepens the flavors and melds the tomatoes with the spices.
4. Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the simmering soup. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender, about eight to ten minutes. The starch released will naturally thicken the broth.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the chopped fresh basil. This bright, herbal element adds a refreshing counterpoint to the rich tomato base.
6. To serve, ladle the soup into shallow bowls. Top each portion with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a dusting of grated Parmesan. Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired, and enjoy your comforting, high-protein lasagna soup!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HIGH PROTEIN LASAGNA SOUP
Serving this robust lasagna soup is more than just ladling it into bowls—it’s about creating a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re entertaining friends, feeding the family on a busy weeknight, or enjoying a quiet solo dinner, thoughtful presentation and complementary side dishes can elevate this hearty soup to restaurant-quality heights. Consider setting the table with rustic ceramic bowls that hold heat well, so your soup stays warm from the first spoonful to the last. A linen napkin or a wooden tray beneath each bowl not only protects surfaces but also adds a cozy, inviting aesthetic. Bright, contrasting garnishes such as extra basil sprigs or a dash of crushed red pepper visually signal the flavors within, enticing everyone to dig in. And don’t underestimate the power of ambient lighting—a softly lit dining area with candles or pendant lights can make this simple one-pot meal feel like a special occasion.
- Pair with garlic toast made from crusty Italian bread spread with garlic butter and lightly broiled until golden for an irresistible crunchy contrast.
- Serve alongside a mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to introduce a refreshing bite that balances the soup’s richness.
- Offer a selection of Italian antipasti—think marinated olives, roasted peppers, and thinly sliced salami—for a fun, build-your-own starter station.
- Garnish each bowl with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an elegant finish.
HOW TO STORE HIGH PROTEIN LASAGNA SOUP
Proper storage ensures you can savor every last spoonful of this delicious soup, whether you’re enjoying leftovers the next day or planning meals for the week. Due to the lasagna noodles continuing to absorb liquid over time, it’s important to keep an eye on consistency and adjust as needed. Always let the soup cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation from making it watery. Use airtight containers to lock in freshness and prevent any refrigerator odors from seeping in. Label containers with the date to keep track of how long it’s been stored. If you’re portioning for quick meals, consider storing individual servings for grab-and-go convenience. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or water to restore the perfect soup-like texture, since the noodles tend to thicken the mixture as they rest.
- Refrigeration: Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: Portion soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace. Freeze for up to three months.
- Thawing & Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave using the defrost setting. Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.
- Freshness Boost: Stir in a handful of fresh basil or a splash of broth after reheating to revive bright flavors and correct thickness.
CONCLUSION
This high protein lasagna soup brings together the best elements of a classic lasagna—robust tomato sauce, layers of cheese, and hearty noodles—into a single, soul-warming bowl. It’s easy enough for beginner cooks, yet vibrant and flavorful enough to impress guests at a casual dinner gathering. With just 15 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes of cooking, you have a satisfying meal that clocks in around 450 calories per serving, complete with lean protein, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs. The one-pot method streamlines cleanup, making it an ideal option for meal prep or busy weeknights. And the versatility of this recipe means you can easily swap in lentils or plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist, or adjust the spice level with additional red pepper flakes.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later, so you can whip up this comforting soup whenever the craving strikes. You can also find a FAQ below that addresses common questions about substitutions, cooking times, and more. If you give this high protein lasagna soup a try, please leave a comment, share your experience, or let me know if you have any questions. Your feedback helps me continue to craft delicious, approachable recipes that turn everyday ingredients into remarkable meals. Enjoy every spoonful!
High Protein Lasagna Soup
Description
Experience all the classic flavors of lasagna in a warm, comforting soup. Packed with lean protein and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Make sure to crumble the meat as it cooks; drain excess fat.
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Stir in onions and garlic; cook until onions become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add oregano and red pepper flakes. Stir in tomato paste until well combined, about 1 minute.
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Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and reduce heat; simmer until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
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Stir in lasagna noodles and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
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Remove from heat; Stir in fresh basil.
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To serve, ladle soup into bowls and top with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Garnish with additional basil if desired.
Note
- This recipe is a creative twist on traditional lasagna, offering all the flavors in a comforting soup form.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based protein.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen.
- The lasagna noodles continue to absorb the broth over time, so it may be necessary to add more broth when reheating.
- This dish is high in protein due to the lean meat and cheese components, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
