Pin this A hearty, comforting soup inspired by classic lasagne, featuring a rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and savory mushroom crisps for a deliciously crunchy finish.
I first made this soup on a chilly weekend when I was craving the classic flavors of lasagne but wanted something simpler and more comforting. The mushroom toppers were an unexpected hit that everyone loved.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables and roasting mushrooms
- Onion: Diced, adds sweetness and body
- Garlic cloves: Minced, for aromatic backbone
- Carrots: Diced, add subtle sweetness
- Celery stalks: Diced, for additional flavor
- Red bell pepper: Diced, brings color and zest
- Dried oregano: Classic Italian herb
- Dried basil: Adds freshness
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For gentle heat
- Canned crushed tomatoes: The soup’s hearty base
- Vegetable broth: Savory liquid foundation
- Tomato paste: Boosts depth and richness
- Lasagne sheets: Broken into pieces, for authentic texture
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into the soup for a gooey effect
- Parmesan cheese: Adds robust flavor
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish
- Cremini or button mushrooms: Thinly sliced for crisp topping
- Olive oil (for mushrooms): Helps crisp the mushrooms in the oven
- Sea salt: For seasoning mushrooms
- Freshly ground black pepper (for mushrooms): Finishes mushroom crisps
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Mushroom Crisps:
- Toss sliced mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15–20 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Add Herbs:
- Stir in oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Add tomato paste, stir, then pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add Pasta:
- Add broken lasagne sheets and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in Cheeses:
- Stir in ricotta, mozzarella, and half the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with mushroom crisps, remaining Parmesan, and fresh basil.
Pin this Sharing this soup with my family reminded us of cozy Sunday dinners, with everyone reaching for extra mushroom crisps and debating whether the soup was better than traditional lasagne.
Recipe Variations
For a vegan version, substitute plant-based ricotta and mozzarella, and omit Parmesan or use a vegan alternative. Add spinach or kale for extra greens if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a robust Italian red wine such as Chianti for a complete meal, or serve with a side of garlic bread for extra comfort.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving contains approximately 410 calories, 16 g fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Pin this This dish is perfect for cozy evenings or when you want lasagne flavors without the effort. Serve hot and enjoy the savory crunch of mushroom toppers in every spoonful.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What makes the mushroom crisps crunchy?
Thinly sliced mushrooms roasted at high heat with olive oil until golden and dry give a delightfully crisp texture.
- → Can I use other pasta types instead of lasagne sheets?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or broken spaghetti works well for a similar hearty bite.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella, and substitute Parmesan with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast.
- → Which herbs enhance the soup's flavors?
Dried oregano and basil add classic Mediterranean undertones, while fresh basil brightens the finish.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
Choose a robust Italian red such as Chianti to complement tomato notes and creamy cheeses.
- → Can I add greens for extra nutrition?
Stir in spinach or kale during simmering for boosted nutrients and vibrant color.