The BEST High Protein Lasagna Soup

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a hearty lasagna bubbling in the oven, its cheesy goodness wafting through the air. But what if you could skip the oven and still indulge in that classic flavor? Let me introduce you to The BEST High Protein Lasagna Soup! This delightful dish brings all the beloved elements of traditional lasagna into a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also loaded with protein to fuel your day. Ready in about 30 minutes, this soup works as a satisfying family dinner or a meal prep hero for your week ahead.

Why You Will Love This High Protein Lasagna Soup

Imagine a chaotic weeknight: you’ve just wrapped up work, the kids are asking for dinner, and you have a million things on your mind. Who has time to layer noodles and bake lasagna? This High Protein Lasagna Soup comes to the rescue! With all the rich flavors of a cheesy, meaty lasagna but in a deliciously warm soup form, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds. And let’s not forget the high protein factor! Made with lean ground turkey or chicken and plenty of veggies, it fills you up without weighing you down. Perfect for those who want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s customizable! Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking to switch things up with some extra veggies, I promise this recipe has got you covered.

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Cook the Meat Separately: For the best flavor, brown your ground meat in a separate pan before adding it to the soup. This gives it a nice sear and enhances the overall taste of your lasagna soup.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano can take your soup to the next level. If you can’t find fresh, dried herbs work well too. Just remember to adjust the quantity since dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
• Opt for Low-Sodium Broth: To keep the soup healthy, opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. You can always adjust the seasoning balance later by adding salt to taste.
• Prepare in Batches: This recipe is great for meal prep! Make a larger batch on the weekends and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

This High Protein Lasagna Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Each serving provides a generous amount of protein, thanks to the lean meat and added cheese. Here’s what you can expect nutritionally:

• High Protein: Utilizing ground turkey or chicken delivers lean protein without excess fat, vital for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Vitamins: The addition of tomatoes, spinach, and other vegetables contributes essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, C, and K.
• Low in Carbs: Unlike traditional lasagna, this soup can be made with low-carb options or even without pasta for a lower-carb meal.
• Easy on the Digestion: When prepared in soup form, the softer components are easier to digest compared to dense, baked casseroles.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients (with substitution options in table format)

Ingredient	Substitution Options
1 pound ground turkey or chicken	Ground beef or Italian sausage
1 medium onion, diced	Shallots or leeks
2 cloves garlic, minced	Garlic powder (1 tsp)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes	Diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth	Vegetable broth or beef stock
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped	Swiss chard or arugula
8 oz whole wheat pasta (or gluten-free pasta)	Zoodles or chickpea pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese	Cottage cheese or vegan ricotta
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese	Vegan cheese or cheddar cheese
1 tsp dried oregano	Italian seasoning or fresh oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions (step-by-step with cooking tips)

1. Cook the Meat: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Once the meat is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Base Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the chicken broth. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Incorporate Pasta: Add the whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to the pot, stirring well. Cover and cook according to pasta package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
5. Mix in Greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale in the final 2-3 minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt perfectly and add beautiful color to your soup.
6. Prepare the Cheese: In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried oregano. This will add delicious creaminess to your soup.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Swirl in a dollop of the ricotta mix and sprinkle mozzarella on top. You can also add fresh basil for garnish if desired!

FAQ

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making the leftovers even tastier!

Can I freeze High Protein Lasagna Soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove for a quick meal.

Can I use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version?

Certainly! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian option!

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is a stand-alone dish, but you might like to pair it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or a sprinkle of fresh parmesan for an extra touch!

Can I customize the ingredients based on dietary preferences?

Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. You can swap the protein, use gluten-free pasta, or add more vegetables based on your taste or dietary requirements.

Conclusion with light call to action

There you have it! A delicious, nutritious, and easily customizable recipe for The BEST High Protein Lasagna Soup that’s perfect for families or individuals on-the-go. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s bound to become a weekly staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your own variations and experiences in the comments below! Enjoy every comforting bowl, and happy cooking!

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