This Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup is a fun twist on a classic! It’s filled with hearty pasta, rich tomatoes, and a spicy kick that makes it so inviting. Perfect for cozy nights!
What I love is that you get all the yummy flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering. Just one pot and I’m ready to dig in, bowl after bowl—who can resist that? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your heat preference. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well as a substitute, providing great flavor without the extra fat.
Crushed Tomatoes: For a fresh taste, consider using canned whole tomatoes blended into a puree. If you’re looking for a less acidic flavor, opt for diced tomatoes or even a jar of tomato sauce as an alternative.
Noodles: I love using mafaldine for its fun shape. If you can’t find it, broken lasagna sheets, rigatoni, or even penne will do the trick just as well.
Heavy Cream: While cream adds a rich texture, half-and-half or whole milk can be excellent substitutes if you want to cut back on calories. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk for creaminess!
How Do I Layer Flavors in This Soup?
Layering flavors is key to making this soup delicious. Start with sautéing the onion and garlic; this builds a solid base. Onions need a few minutes to soften and become sweet, so don’t rush through this step. Don’t forget the red pepper flakes as they add an immediate kick. Balance is everything!
- Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and red pepper flakes for flavor.
- Brown the sausage thoroughly for depth, followed by the crushed tomatoes to create the soup’s body.
- Simmer with seasonings to allow the flavors to meld before adding noodles, which should be cooked just right for the perfect bite.
Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (for the “arrabbiata” spicy kick; adjust to taste)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 8 oz (230g) mafaldine or broken lasagna noodles
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil or a handful of fresh basil torn (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Crusty bread or garlic bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fantastic option for a busy evening dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and drizzle in a bit of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. This will help layer the flavors in your soup.
2. Add the Flavors:
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. The aroma should be amazing!
3. Brown the Sausage:
Add the ground Italian sausage to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon until it is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. This step adds delicious flavor to your soup!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth; stir to combine everything. This mix will become the hearty base of your soup.
5. Season and Simmer:
Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Cook the Noodles:
Add the broken mafaldine or lasagna noodles to the soup and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t get mushy!
7. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, cooking for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through. This will make your soup wonderfully creamy.
8. Final Touches:
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. You want it just perfect for your palate!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for added flavor and a nice presentation. Serve immediately with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping.
Enjoy this spicy, hearty Arrabbiata Lasagna Soup warm and comforting, packed with the classic flavors of lasagna combined into a cozy soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Sausage?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option while still offering great flavor. Just season it well with herbs and spices to keep it tasty!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
You can substitute the Italian sausage with a meat alternative like tempeh or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Also, consider adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember that the noodles may become softer when reheated.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, as the noodles will absorb some liquid over time.
