Let’s talk comfort food, but with a twist. If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in the rich, cheesy, layered goodness of lasagna without the hours of oven time, this Turkey Lasagna Soup is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a steaming bowl of savory turkey, pasta, tomatoes, and gooey cheese, all melding together in a hearty broth that tastes like pure homemade love.
This soup takes the best of lasagna-meaty layers, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella-and transforms it into a cozy, weeknight-friendly version that’s ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or even impressing friends without breaking a sweat. Plus, using turkey instead of beef gives it a lighter, yet still satisfying, profile.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to make it, why each ingredient matters, and how to tweak it to make it truly yours.
Turkey Lasagna Soup Recipe
This is a soup that balances richness and comfort perfectly. You get the savory flavor of browned turkey, the tang of tomato, the softness of pasta, and the creaminess of cheese in every spoonful. And the best part? It’s all in a single pot, which means fewer dishes and maximum flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to get started. I’ll also hint at why each ingredient makes a difference because, trust me, understanding them will make your soup taste next-level.
- Ground turkey (1 lb) – Lean, tender, and full of flavor. Turkey is lighter than beef but still packs that meaty punch.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Helps brown the turkey and adds a subtle richness to the soup.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Sauté it until soft for the best aroma.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced) – Because garlic = happiness. Adds a fragrant punch.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can) – The base of your soup; opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp) – Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the soup slightly.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups) – The heart of your soup, adding depth and richness.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp) – A classic blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary; instantly lasagna vibes.
- Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional) – Just a hint of heat to balance the richness.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
- Lasagna noodles (broken into pieces, 6 oz) – No need to cook separately; they’ll soften right in the soup.
- Ricotta cheese (½ cup) – Adds creamy, dreamy texture in every spoonful.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts beautifully on top for that classic lasagna finish.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated) – Adds sharp, salty, nutty notes that elevate the whole dish.
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish) – A fragrant, fresh finish that makes it feel restaurant-quality.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s the step-by-step, conversational guide to creating this cozy masterpiece:
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Toss in minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds-just until fragrant.
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Brown The Turkey
- Add ground turkey to the pot.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no pink remains and it starts to brown, about 6-7 minutes.
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Add The Tomato Base
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in the broth and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Cook The Noodles
- Add broken lasagna noodles directly to the pot.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, until noodles are tender.
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Finish With Cheese
- Stir in ricotta for creamy richness.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding your ingredients can take this from ’good’ to “mind-blowingly delicious”.
- Ground turkey – Lean is best for a lighter soup; dark meat gives more flavor but can be richer.
- Tomatoes – The sweeter the canned tomatoes, the more natural depth your soup will have.
- Cheeses – Ricotta is for creaminess, mozzarella for gooey texture, Parmesan for sharpness. Don’t skip one-each plays a critical role.
- Lasagna noodles – Breaking them makes the soup feel lasagna-like without the work of layering.
Expert Tips
Here’s where the magic happens-little tweaks that elevate your soup from homey to gourmet:
- Don’t overcook noodles – They’ll continue to absorb liquid even after you turn off the heat. Al dente is perfect.
- Simmer gently – High heat can make the soup watery or break the noodles. Slow and steady wins.
- Mix cheeses off the heat – Ricotta and mozzarella taste best when added at the end; avoid rubbery textures.
- Make ahead – Soup flavors improve overnight. Just add fresh mozzarella before serving.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? You can tweak this in many fun ways:
- Spicy kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetable boost – Toss in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Cheese overload – Stir in provolone or fontina for more depth.
- Gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter, gluten-free option.
Final Words
Turkey Lasagna Soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be fussy. It’s hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying-all while being faster and simpler than traditional lasagna. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for busy days, or impressing friends, it’s a recipe that consistently delivers warmth and flavor in every spoonful.
FAQs
What Is Turkey Lasagna Soup?
Turkey lasagna soup is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna, such as seasoned turkey, tomato sauce, and cheese, in a hearty, brothy soup form. It typically includes pasta, vegetables, and Italian herbs for a full-flavored, warm meal.
How Long Does It Take To Make Turkey Lasagna Soup?
Preparation and cooking usually take about 40 to 50 minutes. This includes sautéing the turkey and vegetables, simmering the soup to develop flavor, and cooking the pasta until tender.
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead Of Turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or even Italian sausage for turkey. Keep in mind that beef may alter the fat content and overall flavor, but it will still produce a rich and satisfying soup.
What Type Of Pasta Works Best In Turkey Lasagna Soup?
Small pasta shapes such as broken lasagna noodles, rotini, penne, or ditalini work best. These hold up well in the broth without becoming mushy and allow each spoonful to have pasta, meat, and sauce.
Is Turkey Lasagna Soup Healthy?
It can be a healthy option, especially if made with lean ground turkey, low-sodium broth, and plenty of vegetables. You can further reduce calories by using part-skim cheese and whole-grain pasta.
Can I Make Turkey Lasagna Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, it can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store the soup without pasta to prevent it from becoming too soft. Cook the pasta separately and combine it with the soup when ready to serve.
Can I Freeze Turkey Lasagna Soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Again, it’s best to freeze it without the pasta, then cook fresh pasta when reheating. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What Cheese Is Typically Used In Turkey Lasagna Soup?
Common choices include shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan. Mozzarella provides meltiness, ricotta adds creaminess, and Parmesan enhances flavor with a savory, nutty note.
How Can I Make Turkey Lasagna Soup Spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust gradually to suit your taste, and consider adding it while simmering to allow the heat to infuse the broth evenly.
Can I Make Turkey Lasagna Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, a slow cooker works well by cooking the turkey and vegetables first, then adding broth and seasonings, and finally adding pasta near the end. An Instant Pot can speed up the process with sauté and pressure-cook functions, making it convenient for weeknight meals.