1-First Step: Prepare and Brown the Meat: Begin by gathering all your ingredients, like chopping the onion and mincing the garlic, to make the process smooth this is your mise en place! In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the 1/2 pound ground beef and 1/2 pound sausage, cooking until they’re nicely browned, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then drain the grease and remove the meat from the pot. This step builds a flavorful base and can be adapted for dietary needs, like using ground turkey for a leaner option.

2-Second Step: Sauté the Aromatics: Now, in the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat to keep things simple and reduce cleanup. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and smells wonderful. Then, toss in the 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes more, being careful not to burn them. For variations, if you’re making it vegetarian, you could add chopped vegetables here to amp up the nutrients and adapt to preferences.

3-Third Step: Build the Soup Base: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 24 ounces marinara sauce, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried), 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning to create a rich, savory mixture. Return the cooked meat to the pot and pour in 7 cups chicken or vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil over high heat, which should take 5-10 minutes. This part is key for blending flavors, and you can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake for a healthier twist.

4-Fourth Step: Add and Cook the Noodles: Once boiling, add the 9 broken lasagna noodles and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender, about 10-15 minutes. If you’re including 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, stir them in now and cook until they wilt, which only takes a minute or two. Keep an eye on the pot to prevent sticking, and remember, if you’re using gluten-free noodles, adjust the cooking time as needed for the best results.

5-Fifth Step: Prepare the Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, combine 10 ounces ricotta or cottage cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to make a creamy mixture that’s the star of the show. This step allows the cheeses to meld together before serving, adding that gooey, comforting element. For vegan adaptations, swap in plant-based cheeses to keep the soup inclusive and delicious for everyone.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot stovetop ground beef lasagna soup into bowls, then top each with a dollop of the cheese mixture and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor it’s perfect for busy parents on a chilly evening! Remember, this soup serves about 6 people, and you can adjust portions based on your family’s size. For more dessert ideas to pair with this meal, check out our easy peach cobbler recipe on the blog, which makes a sweet ending to your dinner.