This Dairy-Free Lasagna Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! Packed with all your favorite Italian flavors, it features pasta, rich tomato broth, and veggies without any dairy.
It’s super easy to make, and you can even sneak in some extra veggies without anyone noticing! I love serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing due to its flavor and health benefits. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or coconut oil. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that might change the taste of your soup.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but you can use ground turkey for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try lentils or plant-based meat crumbles!
Broth: Use beef or vegetable broth based on your preference. Make sure it’s labeled dairy-free, as some brands may include dairy. Homemade broth is a fantastic option if you have time!
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These are convenient and save time. If you can’t find them, regular lasagna noodles work too—just cook them first according to package instructions. Alternatively, broken ravioli adds a fun twist!
Dairy-Free Ricotta: Store-bought dairy-free ricotta is easy to use. If unavailable, silken tofu blended with some herbs offers a creamy texture and works as a nice substitute.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Soup Without Burning My Ingredients?
Cooking soup means balancing flavors and preventing burning! Here are a few key tips:
- Always heat your pot on medium heat before adding oil—this helps prevent sticking.
- Add ingredients in stages. Start with onions, then add garlic and zucchini. This way, everything gets cooked properly without burning.
- When adding the broth and tomatoes, make sure to scrape any browned bits off the pot for added flavor.
- Keep an eye on your heat! If your soup is bubbling too much, lower the heat to simmer gently.
By using these techniques, you’ll achieve a rich and flavorful soup that’s sure to please!
Dairy-Free Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth (ensure dairy-free)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces or use broken ravioli as pictured
- 1/2 cup dairy-free ricotta or plain silken tofu (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total—about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will add a nice flavor base to your soup!
2. Cook the Veggies:
Add the minced garlic and diced zucchini to the pot. Continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the zucchini is tender. You want to soften the veggies while enhancing their flavors.
3. Add the Meat:
Next, stir in the ground beef or turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You’ll want to cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If excess fat collects, feel free to drain it off.
4. Make it Soupy:
Now, pour in the broth and crushed tomatoes. Add in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling a little spicy), and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a good simmer.
5. Add the Noodles:
Toss in the broken lasagna noodles (or ravioli) and let everything simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the noodles are cooked through. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from clumping.
6. Season to Taste:
Once the noodles are tender, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a little extra salt can really bring the flavors alive!
7. Serve Up Your Soup:
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and add a nice dollop of dairy-free ricotta or silken tofu in the center. This creamy topping is a delightful addition!
8. Finish with Garnish:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping, and you have a warming meal ready in no time!
Enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna in a comforting, dairy-free soup form!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles in This Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since gluten-free noodles may cook differently than traditional ones.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the veggies you choose, especially if they require more or less cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive the soup’s consistency.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
