Imagine a bubbling pot of Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup, the rich aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the nutty scent of golden, broiled parmesan.
The vibrant colors of butternut squash noodles and fresh basil create a feast for the eyes, while the gooey texture of melted mozzarella invites you to indulge in a comforting, hearty meal.
This dish quickly became a family favorite on those busy weeknights when time is short, yet the craving for a nourishing dinner persists.
I recall a chilly evening when this soup warmed us from the inside out, transforming a rushed meal into a delightful experience.
Whether you’re gathering for a Sunday supper or looking for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to any table.
Ready? Let’s cook!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a savory blend of herbs and spices.
- Uses pantry staples like beef broth and crushed tomatoes.
- Incorporates fresh ingredients for a vibrant, hearty meal.
- Offers a comforting, cheesy topping with melted parmesan and mozzarella.
- Provides a unique twist with nutrient-rich butternut squash noodles.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil — use extra virgin for better flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced — choose a fresh, firm onion.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — use fresh garlic for best taste.
- 1 pound ground beef — opt for lean beef for a healthier option.
- 4 cups beef broth — select low-sodium if preferred.
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes — find canned tomatoes with no added sugar.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning — verify it’s a blend of quality herbs.
- 1 teaspoon salt — adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground for peak flavor.
- 2 cups butternut squash noodles — use fresh for best texture.
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese — freshly grated for best flavor.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded — use whole milk mozzarella for richness.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped — choose vibrant, fragrant leaves.
Step-by-Step Method
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and release their aromas. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning and to guarantee even cooking. The aromatics form the base of flavor for your soup.
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until it’s completely browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
This process helps the beef evenly distribute throughout the soup. Make sure no pink remains in the meat before proceeding to the next step, which should take roughly 5-6 minutes.
Build the Broth
Stir in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
Cook the Noodles
Add the butternut squash noodles to the pot. Cook them for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The noodles should be tender but still maintain a slight crunch. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your soup. Confirm they’re well incorporated into the broth.
Broil the Cheese
Preheat the broiler in your oven. Pour the soup into a baking dish and evenly sprinkle the shredded parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Place the dish under the broiler, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and golden brown. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve
Remove the soup from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the cheese to set slightly.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving. The basil adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish. Serve hot, and enjoy your Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup with Butternut Noodles.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain a vegetarian dish.
- Substitute butternut squash noodles with zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a different flavor and texture.
- For a dairy-free option, replace parmesan and mozzarella cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives.
You Must Know
- Use Fresh Butternut Squash: For the best texture, use fresh butternut squash to make your noodles. This guarantees they maintain a slight crunch when added to the soup.
- Broil Carefully: Keep a close watch when broiling the cheese topping to prevent it from burning. The goal is a melted, golden brown cheese crust.
- Grate Parmesan Fresh: Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the cheesy crust of the soup.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes after adding the broth and tomatoes. This enhances the overall flavor profile by allowing the ingredients to meld together.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup seems too thick for your liking, add more beef broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving Tips
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian experience.
- Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a pop of color.
- Serve in deep bowls to keep the soup warm and showcase the cheese crust.
- Pair with a glass of Chianti wine to complement the rich flavors.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup with Butternut Noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To make ahead, prepare the soup base without the cheese topping. Freeze the soup for up to 2 months.
Then thaw, add cheese, and broil before serving.
Reheating
To gently reheat Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup, use a microwave on low power.
Alternatively, you can use an oven at 300°F.
Another option is to reheat on a stovetop on low heat, stirring occasionally to guarantee even warming.
Italian Cuisine’s Global Influence
While savoring a bowl of Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup, it’s impossible not to appreciate how Italian cuisine has woven itself into the fabric of global culinary traditions.
Each spoonful brings memories of cozy trattorias and warm family gatherings. Italian food, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, has found a home in kitchens around the world.
From the bustling streets of New York to the heart of Tokyo, dishes like pasta and pizza symbolize comfort and connection.
This soup, with its rich broth, savory beef, and the innovative twist of butternut noodles, is a testament to that global influence.
It’s a delightful reminder of how Italian culinary artistry transcends borders, inviting us all to share in its delicious legacy.
Final Thoughts
Give this delicious Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup a try, and feel free to tweak it to suit your taste buds! Whether you add more cheese or spice it up a notch, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely, you can! I’ve tried using ground turkey and it turned out delicious. The soup’s flavors meld beautifully, offering a lighter taste. Just make sure you season well to enhance the turkey’s subtle flavor. Enjoy experimenting!
How Do I Make Butternut Squash Noodles From Scratch?
To make butternut squash noodles, I peel the squash, cut it in half, and remove the seeds. Then, I spiralize or use a julienne peeler to create noodles. It’s a simple, satisfying process that enhances any dish!
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Soup?
I’d suggest replacing ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian twist. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The flavors meld beautifully, and you’ll still enjoy a comforting and rich soup experience. Enjoy!
Can I Freeze Leftovers for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze leftovers! I recommend letting the soup cool completely first. Pour it into an airtight container, leaving some space at the top. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months.
What Wine Pairs Well With This Lasagna Soup?
I’d recommend pairing a rich, medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barbera. They’ll complement the savory flavors beautifully, adding warmth to your meal. The wine’s acidity balances the cheese and enhances the butternut noodles’ sweetness.
Parmesan Crusted Lasagna Soup with Butternut Noodles
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Medium Skillet
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Ladle
- 1 Baking dish
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 clove garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cup beef broth
- 2 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cup butternut squash noodles
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add butternut squash noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler on your oven.
- Pour the soup into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Place the baking dish under the broiler until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
