Save A comforting and hearty soup inspired by classic lasagna flavors, topped with crispy, cheesy cauliflower croutons for a delicious twist.
I first made this lasagne soup for a family gathering and everyone loved the addition of the cheesy cauliflower croutons. It's now a favorite in our home when we want comfort food with a twist.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, used for sautéing vegetables and tossing cauliflower
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced
- Carrot: 1 large, diced
- Celery stalk: 1, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz/800 g)
- Vegetable broth: 6 cups (1.5 L)
- Lasagna noodles: 8, broken into bite-sized pieces
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Chopped fresh basil: 2 tablespoons, for garnish
- Cauliflower: 1 small head, cut into small florets
- Olive oil (for croutons): 2 tablespoons
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried oregano (for croutons): 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt (for croutons): 1/4 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese (for croutons): 1/2 cup, grated
- Mozzarella cheese (for croutons): 1/2 cup, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add seasonings and tomato paste:
- Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and broth:
- Add crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Roast cauliflower for croutons:
- Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Spread onto prepared baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes.
- Add cheeses to cauliflower:
- Remove cauliflower from oven. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Return to oven for another 10 to 12 minutes, until golden and crisp. Set aside.
- Cook the noodles:
- Add broken lasagna noodles to soup. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are al dente.
- Finish the soup:
- Stir in ricotta and mozzarella cheese to soup, cook for additional 2 minutes until melted and creamy.
- Season and serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle soup into bowls. Top with crispy cheesy cauliflower croutons and garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan.
Save Serving this soup brings everyone together around the table. My kids especially love the crispy cauliflower croutons, and it always feels like a family treat with some crusty bread alongside.
Required Tools
Large soup pot, baking sheet, parchment paper, chef's knife, cutting board, and ladle all help make this recipe come together easily.
Allergen Information
This recipe includes milk/dairy and gluten, but no nuts. Always verify cheese if cooking for vegetarians.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 410 calories, 19 g fat, 44 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
Save This soup tastes even better the next day and is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy it hot with extra cheesy croutons for a memorable meal.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do I achieve a creamy soup texture?
Stir ricotta and mozzarella toward the end of cooking. They melt into the broth, creating a creamy finish.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use plant-based cheeses or omit cheese entirely. Vegan cheese works well for the cauliflower croutons.
- → What type of lasagna noodles should I use?
Regular or oven-ready noodles work. Break noodles into bite-sized pieces before adding to the soup.
- → How are the cauliflower croutons prepared?
Roast cauliflower florets, then toss with Parmesan and mozzarella. Return to the oven until crisp and golden.
- → Can I add extra protein?
Add cooked lentils or white beans to boost protein without altering flavor or texture significantly.
- → Is this dish nut-free?
Yes, there are no nuts in the ingredients. Always verify cheese labels to confirm allergen information.