Pioneer Woman Lasagna Soup Recipe

Lasagna Soup: Ree Drummond’s Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Twist

If you love lasagna but wish it was simpler, faster, and just as satisfying, lasagna soup is your answer. Inspired by Ree Drummond, known as The Pioneer Woman, this recipe brings together all the favorite elements of classic lasagna—hearty meat, silky noodles, creamy ricotta, and rich tomato broth—in a one-pot wonder that’s tailor-made for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Learn how to recreate this comforting dish in your own kitchen, complete with tips, serving ideas, and frequently asked questions.

What Is Lasagna Soup?

Lasagna soup is a deconstructed version of the traditional Italian pasta bake. Rather than layered and baked, the ingredients simmer together in a flavorful broth, making it hearty, comforting, and more convenient. Wide, broken pieces of lasagna noodles absorb the savory tomato-rich broth, while dollops of seasoned ricotta mimic the creamy cheese layer found in the classic dish. Every spoonful delivers big flavor without the fuss of assembling a casserole.

Key Ingredients for Lasagna Soup

Each component of this soup brings authentic lasagna flavor while keeping preparation streamlined. Here’s what you’ll need for both the soup and signature ricotta dumplings.

For the Soup:

• Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the meat and aromatics.
• Sweet Italian sausage: Provides rich, savory depth. You can substitute with spicy Italian sausage for heat, or use a mix of sausage and ground beef for a meatier base.
• Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that form the foundation of the broth.
• Dry white wine: Adds complexity and balances the acidity of the tomatoes (can substitute with chicken broth).
• Whole plum tomatoes (canned, crushed by hand): Gives the soup body and tangy-sweet tomato flavor.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Lightens the broth while delivering richness; vegetable broth also works.
• Dried oregano & red pepper flakes: Classic Italian herbs and gentle heat.
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning.
• Lasagna noodles (broken into pieces): Bring the true lasagna spirit. Breaking the noodles creates rustic texture and is easier to eat.
• Baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrition—kale or escarole can be used instead.
• Fresh basil: Infuses brightness just before serving.
• Italian bread: For dunking into the flavorful broth.

For the Ricotta Dumplings:

• Ricotta cheese: The creamy, mild centerpiece for dolloping.
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Adds salty nuttiness.
• Fresh basil: Enhances the dumplings with freshness.
• Kosher salt: Rounds out the flavors.
• Black pepper: A gentle kick.

Step-by-Step Directions: Making Pioneer Woman’s Lasagna Soup

• Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Aromatics

  In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Crumble in the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, 3–4 minutes. This builds a rich base for the soup.

• Step 2: Deglaze With Wine

  Pour in the dry white wine. Stir and let it simmer until most of the liquid evaporates and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 2–3 minutes. Wine deepens the flavors and lifts the brown bits from the pot for extra savoriness.

• Step 3: Build the Broth

  Add the crushed tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, and 3 cups of water. Stir in oregano, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the broth thickens slightly, about 7 minutes. The soup’s character really develops during this step.

• Step 4: Add Noodles and Greens

  Break about 6 lasagna noodles into rough 1- to 2-inch pieces. Drop them into the simmering soup and cook until just al dente, usually 6–7 minutes. Stir in baby spinach and fresh basil, cooking just until the spinach wilts, 2–3 minutes. Taste for salt and adjust as needed.

• Step 5: Prepare Ricotta Dumplings

  While the soup simmers, mix ricotta, Parmesan, basil, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir until combined. This mixture will be scooped atop each bowl for a burst of creamy, cheesy flavor.

• Step 6: Serve

  Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with two generous tablespoons (or more) of ricotta mixture. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping.

Table: Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

Tips for Perfect Lasagna Soup

• Break the noodles unevenly for a rustic, homey look—just like grandma’s lasagna.
• Taste and adjust seasonings at each step, especially after adding tomatoes and broth.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to soften as it sits in the hot broth.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the soup base in advance, then cook the noodles and assemble with ricotta just before serving for best texture.
• Vegetarian friendly: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth; bulk up with more beans or sautéed mushrooms.
• Feeding a crowd: This recipe easily doubles, and the flavors only improve after resting for a few hours or overnight.

Serving Suggestions

• Homemade or store-bought Italian bread: Ideal for soaking up the tomato-packed broth and sweeping up bits of sausage and pasta.
• Salad: A crisp Caesar or simple arugula salad offers a refreshing contrast.
• Extra cheese: Place a bowl of grated Parmesan at the table for cheese lovers.

Variations to Try

Switch up this comforting soup with creative twists and additions:

• Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for extra heat.
• Veggie-packed: Stir in carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the onions.
• Ultra-creamy: Swirl in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
• Herb explosion: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley alongside the basil for herby depth.
• Cheese lovers’ delight: Sprinkle mozzarella on hot soup just before serving for gooey strands in every bite.

How to Store and Reheat Lasagna Soup

• Store: Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the ricotta mixture separate for best results.
• Freeze: The soup (without noodles) can be frozen up to 2 months. Thaw and heat, then add freshly cooked noodles before serving.
• Reheat: Warm the soup gently over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Add fresh ricotta and herbs just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Lasagna Soup Edition

Q: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

A: Yes, but watch closely—they cook faster and tend to soak up more broth, so adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

Q: Is there a gluten-free version?

A: Substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure all your broths and sausage are gluten-free certified.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage or skip the meat, boost with extra mushrooms or beans, and use vegetable broth.

Q: What’s the texture of the ricotta dumplings?

A: They’re creamy and soft. When dolloped onto the hot soup, they melt slightly, mimicking the creamy interior of baked lasagna.

Q: Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

A: You can prepare the soup base (without noodles) in a slow cooker; add cooked noodles and spinach just before serving to prevent over-softening.

Why This Lasagna Soup Stands Out

Ree Drummond’s lasagna soup captures the essence of lasagna—layered flavors, hearty meat, zesty tomato, and creamy cheese—while making it weeknight-friendly and fuss-free. Unlike some lasagna soups that skip key lasagna flavors for convenience, this recipe features ricotta dumplings for authentic creamy pockets and uses wide, unmistakable lasagna noodles.

With every bowl, you’ll taste nostalgia and comfort, all in under an hour and with minimal cleanup. That’s why this Pioneer Woman-inspired Lasagna Soup recipe is worth adding to your winter dinner rotation—or any time you crave the taste of Italy, without the workload.

Lasagna Soup Nutrition Insights

This soup delivers balanced protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Opting for turkey sausage and adding extra vegetables can further improve the nutritional profile. For a lower-fat alternative, use part-skim ricotta and drizzle with olive oil sparingly.

Quick Recap

• Brown sausage, onions, and garlic; deglaze with wine.
• Add tomatoes, broth, seasonings, and broken lasagna noodles.
• Stir in spinach and basil at the end for freshness.
• Top with ricotta dumplings, Parmesan, and serve with crusty bread.

Try This Lasagna Soup for Easy Family Dinners

This lasagna soup stands among the ultimate comfort foods—it’s filling, easy, and lets you enjoy your lasagna craving without the hours spent layering and baking. For cooks of all levels seeking a warm, familiar meal, this Pioneer Woman recipe is destined to become a staple. Happy slurping!