lasagna soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Simmer the soup: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Add pasta: Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

5. Prepare the cheese mixture: While the soup is simmering, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.

6. Assemble and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture. Stir the cheese into the soup for that creamy, lasagna-like texture.

7. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

8. Enjoy: Serve with some crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy your cozy, comforting lasagna soup!