High Protein Lasagna Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl that brings all the cozy flavors of classic lasagna into an easy-to-make soup. It’s packed with ground meat, beans, and plenty of cheese, along with tender noodles and a rich tomato broth that warms you from the inside out. This soup isn’t just tasty—it’s also a great way to get a good dose of protein while enjoying a bowl of comfort food.
I love making this soup on chilly evenings when I want something filling but not too heavy. The best part is that it comes together pretty quickly compared to traditional lasagna, so I can enjoy my favorite flavors without the long wait. Plus, I often add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to sneak in a little extra green without anyone noticing!
When I serve this soup, I like to top it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a bit of grated parmesan cheese. It makes it feel special and extra delicious. Pairing it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad turns it into a perfect, balanced meal. This soup has become a favorite in my house because it’s filling, flavorful, and makes one pot that everyone loves to eat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground meat: I use lean ground beef for a rich, meaty flavor, but ground turkey or chicken work great for a lighter version. For a vegetarian twist, crumbled tofu or lentils are good protein-packed options.
White beans: Adding beans boosts protein and fiber without changing the taste much. Cannellini or great northern beans are good choices. If you don’t like beans, skip them or try cooked chickpeas.
Pasta: Whole wheat or high-protein pasta adds more fiber and nutrition. Regular pasta works fine too. If you want no-gluten, consider gluten-free pasta or use spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles.
Ricotta & cheeses: Ricotta adds creaminess and a classic lasagna flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try dairy-free ricotta or a cashew cream. Parmesan and mozzarella add nice texture and taste; you can adjust the amount or use lower-fat options.
How Do You Get Rich Flavor and Creamy Texture in the Soup?
The key to delicious soup is layering flavors and adding cheese just right. Here’s what helps:
- Sauté onions and meat: Cooking the onions until soft and browning the meat adds deep, savory flavors.
- Use good marinara sauce: A tasty sauce makes a big difference. Homemade or quality store-bought works well.
- Simmer soup: Letting the soup simmer for 10 minutes helps all flavors blend nicely.
- Add cheese last: Stir mozzarella in off the heat for creamy meltiness, and add ricotta on top when serving.
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley at the end for freshness and color.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Colander – handy for draining the beans and cooked pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right.
- Ladle – helps you serve hot soup easily into bowls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier, more flavorful soup.
- Add chopped spinach or kale towards the end for extra greens and nutrients.
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter, protein-rich topping.
- Stir in red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
High Protein Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or tomato pasta sauce
- 4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed (for extra protein)
- 8 ounces whole wheat or high-protein rotini or curly pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnishes:
- 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This High Protein Lasagna Soup takes about 10 minutes for preparation, 20-25 minutes for cooking, including browning the meat, simmering the soup, and cooking the pasta. Overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy your warm, hearty soup in under 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Next, add the ground beef or turkey. Use a spoon to break the meat apart as it browns, cooking it fully for about 6-8 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it off. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Sauce, Broth, Beans, and Seasonings:
Pour the marinara sauce and broth into the pot with the meat. Add the drained white beans and sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Stir everything together well, then bring the soup to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
3. Cook the Pasta and Finish the Soup:
Now, add your whole wheat or high-protein pasta directly into the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. After the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts evenly into the soup.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Each serving gets a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese on top, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley and freshly ground black pepper. Serve right away, with crusty bread if you like, for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Craving more cozy, protein-packed bowls? Try these next: the ultra-creamy Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Soup, comfort-classic Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon Bits, and rich, velvety Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup.Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground meat in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even browning and safer cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding the pasta. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently and add freshly cooked pasta to keep the texture perfect.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese is a great substitute and still adds creaminess. For dairy-free options, try cashew cream or a mild vegan cheese alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If pasta absorbs too much liquid, stir in a little extra broth or water when reheating to loosen the soup back up.