Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef (or your chosen protein) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cannellini beans.
- Continue to simmer, covered, for another 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the creamy mixture. In a food processor or blender, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Blend until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, whisk well by hand.
- Once the noodles are tender, stir the creamy mixture into the soup. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity, if desired.
- Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
For extra protein, add cooked shredded chicken, chickpeas, or lentils. Boost the veggie content with chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach. Increase red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicier soup. This soup is great for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth, adding extra vegetables and lentils.
