Ingredients
For the Soup:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb (450g) ground Italian sausage (or ground beef/turkey)
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
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8 lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add ground sausage (or beef/turkey) and cook until browned and slightly crispy.
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Drain excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot for flavor.
Note: Browning the meat properly builds the base of your flavor — don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
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Add diced onions and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
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Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook for another minute, letting the spices release their aroma.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
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Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
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Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce heat to medium-low.
Note: The slow simmer helps the broth absorb all the Italian herb goodness.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
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Break lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces.
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Drop them directly into the simmering soup.
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Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Check for doneness — noodles should be al dente and tender.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Magic
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Reduce heat to low.
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Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Optional: Add a splash of cream for an extra luxurious texture.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
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Ladle soup into bowls.
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Top with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese.
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Sprinkle with fresh basil and a little extra Parmesan for garnish.
Tip: Serve with garlic bread or crusty sourdough for the perfect dip!
Notes
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Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
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Dairy-Free: Use cashew ricotta or vegan cheese alternatives.
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Low-Carb Option: Substitute lasagna noodles with zucchini ribbons.
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Spice Level: Increase or decrease red pepper flakes to taste.
Note: This dish thickens as it cools — add a splash of broth before reheating to keep it perfectly soupy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner