Save A comforting, savory soup inspired by classic lasagne, featuring rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and a surprising burst of flavor from sweet-tart roasted cranberries.
I first created this soup to impress friends craving something hearty yet unexpected. The roasted cranberries add a playful pop of flavor that always starts fun conversation at the table.
Ingredients
- Roasted Cranberries: 1 cup fresh cranberries, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, pinch of salt
- Soup Base: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed, 1 medium onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 1 can (28 oz/800 g) crushed tomatoes, 4 cups (1 L) chicken or vegetable broth, 8 lasagne noodles (broken into bite-sized pieces), salt and black pepper to taste
- Cheese Topping: 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Roast The Cranberries:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cranberries with olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes, until cranberries are soft and slightly caramelized. Set aside.
- Brown The Sausage:
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add onion. Sauté until softened, then stir in garlic, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Build The Broth:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add Pasta:
- Add broken lasagne noodles. Simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes until noodles are al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Season & Serve:
- Season soup with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, roasted cranberries, and fresh basil.
Save My kids love stirring in the cheese and watching the cranberries burst in the hot soup. It turns dinner into a little celebration every time.
Required Tools
Large pot, baking sheet, wooden spoon, ladle, mixing bowls make soup prep easy and efficient.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan) and gluten (lasagne noodles). Contains pork if using traditional Italian sausage. Double-check sausage and cheese ingredients if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 480, Total Fat 24 g, Carbohydrates 44 g, Protein 23 g.
Save This lasagne soup makes chilly evenings extra special with its creamy texture and cranberry zing. Leftovers are just as delicious!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do roasted cranberries enhance the soup?
Roasted cranberries add a sweet-tart contrast and subtle caramelized notes to the savory tomato broth.
- → Can I substitute sausage for a vegetarian option?
Yes, use plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms along with vegetable broth to keep it meat-free.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a creamy, flavorful finish. Adjust according to personal preference.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep refrigerated in airtight containers. Add extra broth or water when reheating, as it may thicken.
- → What pasta shape is best for this dish?
Broken lasagne noodles are traditional but other bite-sized pastas like mafaldine work well too.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, spinach or kale blend in nicely; stir into the soup for additional nutrients and color.