This homemade lasagna soup with tortellini delivers all the rich, cheesy, and meaty flavors of classic lasagna in a comforting one-pot meal. Ready in 45 minutes and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or half of each)
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
9 ounces cheese tortellini
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Add cheese tortellini to the simmering soup and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 5-7 minutes.
Ladle soup into bowls and top each with a dollop of the ricotta mixture, shredded mozzarella, and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cook tortellini separately if planning for leftovers to prevent them from absorbing too much liquid and becoming too soft.
For a richer flavor, use half ground beef and half Italian sausage. A tablespoon of tomato paste added with the garlic deepens the broth significantly.
Freeze the soup base without tortellini or ricotta for up to 3 months. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.