🖋️ Written by Olivia
Imagine lasagna, but without the hassle of layering noodles, cheese, and sauce like some kind of Italian Jenga. Now picture it as a soup—yes, a soup—where every spoonful delivers the same cheesy, meaty, tomatoey goodness in half the time. This gluten-free lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food hack for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you crave lasagna but don’t want to commit to an hour of oven-watching.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy even your microwave-only roommate could make it (maybe). Ready to upgrade your soup game? Let’s go.
What Makes This Recipe So Good
This isn’t just another soup pretending to be something else.
It’s lasagna in a bowl, with all the flavors you love—savory ground meat, rich tomato broth, melty cheese—minus the gluten and the fuss. The gluten-free noodles hold up perfectly, and the ricotta dollop on top? Chef’s kiss.
Plus, it’s customizable: swap the meat, change the cheese, or load it up with veggies. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with traditional lasagna in the first place.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix, because rules are made to be broken)
- 1 onion, diced (the unsung hero of flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because one is never enough)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (for color and crunch)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (the backbone of the broth)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (gluten-free, obviously)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning (or just throw in oregano, basil, and a prayer)
- 8 oz gluten-free lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (therapy for your inner rebel)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (for that creamy, dreamy finish)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (because more cheese is always the answer)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this unless you like bland food, which is concerning)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain the fat if you’re feeling health-conscious (or don’t, we won’t judge).
- Sauté the veggies: Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot.
Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Your kitchen should smell amazing by now.
- Build the broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Patience is a virtue, but not for long.
- Cook the noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles and simmer until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally unless you enjoy scrubbing burnt noodles off your pot.
- Cheese it up: Remove from heat and stir in half the mozzarella. Dollop ricotta on top of each bowl and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Melt under the broiler for 2 minutes if you’re extra.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will soak up the broth, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating. Freezing?
Skip the noodles—cook them fresh when you reheat. Pro tip: Freeze the soup base and add noodles later for a faster meal.
Benefits of This Recipe
This soup is gluten-free but doesn’t taste like it’s missing anything. It’s packed with protein, customizable for picky eaters, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder—less cleanup means more time for Netflix. And let’s be real, anything that lets you eat lasagna with a spoon is a win.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: Gluten-free pasta turns to mush fast. Follow the package instructions and taste-test like your dinner depends on it (because it does).
- Skimping on seasoning: Tomatoes and broth need help.
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs before serving.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It’s coated in anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly. Grating your own is worth the effort.
Alternatives
No beef? Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
Vegetarian? Skip the meat and add mushrooms or lentils. Dairy-free?
Swap the cheeses for vegan alternatives (though we can’t promise the same level of joy). Out of lasagna noodles? Any gluten-free pasta will work, but the fun is in the broken pieces.
FAQ
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, but add the noodles in the last 30 minutes to avoid mush.
Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first for maximum flavor.
What’s the best gluten-free lasagna noodle brand?
Barilla and Jovial work well, but any brand labeled “gluten-free” will do. Avoid rice noodles—they’re too delicate.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze without the noodles. Cook fresh noodles when reheating to avoid a gummy texture.
Why is my soup too thick?
You either overcooked the noodles or didn’t use enough broth.
Thin it with extra broth or water when reheating.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Sure, if you have hours to simmer them down. Canned tomatoes are faster and more consistent. IMO, save fresh for salads.
Final Thoughts
This gluten-free lasagna soup is the lazy (but genius) way to enjoy lasagna without the work.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in a fraction of the time. Plus, it’s forgiving—swap ingredients, adjust seasoning, and make it yours. Whether you’re gluten-free or just soup-obsessed, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.
Now go forth and eat lasagna with a spoon like the rebel you are.
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