High Protein Lasagna Soup is a hearty and comforting meal that brings together all the flavors you love from classic lasagna into a warm, spoonable soup. It’s packed with ground meat, beans, tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness that makes every bite rich and satisfying.
I love how this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl, especially on chilly days. The protein from the meat and beans keeps me full and energized, which is perfect for busy days when I don’t want to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, and I always find myself sneaking little extra bites while it simmers.
When I serve this soup, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan and a few torn basil leaves on top to brighten things up. It’s also great with some crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last bit. This soup has become a go-to in my kitchen because it’s just so cozy, filling, and perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: Lean ground beef or turkey provides great protein and flavor. For a lighter option, try ground chicken or plant-based crumbles to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans add protein and fiber while making the soup hearty. If you don’t have these, chickpeas or kidney beans work well too.
Lasagna Noodles: Breaking no-boil noodles into pieces is an easy way to mimic lasagna in soup form. You can swap for broken spaghetti or penne if needed.
Cheeses: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create that creamy, cheesy texture typical of lasagna. Part-skim versions keep it lighter, but full-fat gives more richness.
How Do You Keep the Noodles Tender without Getting Mushy?
Adding broken noodles directly to the simmering soup is convenient but can turn mushy if left too long. Here’s how to keep them just right:
- Add noodles only after the soup reaches a boil and cook uncovered.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once noodles are tender, serve immediately or remove excess soup to slow softening.
- If storing leftovers, cook noodles separately and add when reheating.
This helps keep noodles firm, so your soup tastes fresh and satisfying every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking all the soup ingredients evenly in one place.
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and herbs easily and safely.
- Oven-safe bowls – to broil the cheese topping right in the soup bowls for a melty finish.
- Baking sheet – helps you move and broil multiple soup bowls in the oven at once.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef – lighter but still high in protein and tasty.
- Add chopped spinach or kale – boosts nutrition and adds a fresh, mild green flavor.
- Mix in Italian sausage instead of plain ground meat – gives a spicy, rich twist.
- Top with fresh basil or chopped sun-dried tomatoes – adds brightness and a little tang.
How to Make High Protein Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
Cheese Toppings:
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 35 minutes. You’ll spend some time sautéing, simmering the soup until the noodles are tender, and a few minutes broiling the cheese topping to melty perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Aromatics and Meat:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as you cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Add Liquids, Seasonings, and Beans:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, white beans, oregano, basil, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil to start melding the flavors.
3. Cook the Noodles:
Reduce the heat to low. Add the broken lasagna noodles and simmer the soup until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking together.
4. Broil the Cheese Topping:
Preheat your oven broiler (or set oven to 400°F/200°C). Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Dollop ricotta cheese evenly on top of each bowl, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley over the top for a bright finish. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, protein-packed flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the meat in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a better texture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the soup up to the point before adding noodles and cheese. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, then add fresh noodles and cheese when reheating.
What Can I Substitute for No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
If you don’t have no-boil noodles, broken regular lasagna noodles work well too. Just boil them separately until al dente and stir into the soup just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup.
