Soups & Stews
This Wegmans lasagna soup recipe delivers all the hearty comfort of classic lasagna—without the heavy casserole dish or the hours of baking. The secret lies in layering lasagna noodles, ricotta, and marinara between creamy broth and tender vegetables, then simmering until every bite is rich, satisfying, and perfectly balanced.
I developed this version after craving lasagna but wanting something lighter yet equally indulgent—it’s become a weeknight staple that even picky eaters request.
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability: use store-bought lasagna noodles for convenience or fresh egg noodles for extra texture. Sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms first builds deep, savory flavor, while the ricotta adds that signature lasagna creaminess without making the soup feel heavy.
The key is letting it simmer long enough—the flavors meld into a cohesive, comforting bowl that tastes like a hug in a pot.
What you’ll end up with is a soup that’s creamy yet not cloying, meaty without being greasy, and packed with layers of texture—tender noodles, melted cheese, and crisp edges from the simmering process.
It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly, leaving only empty bowls and happy faces behind. The best part? Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serve with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop or alongside a simple green salad for balance. This recipe is designed to be your new go-to for chilly evenings, game days, or whenever you crave lasagna but don’t want to fire up the oven.
Let’s get started—your taste buds will thank you.
Ingredients for wegmans lasagna soup
These 14 ingredients transform into a hearty lasagna soup that's lighter than classic lasagna but just as comforting.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lasagna Noodles 🍝 | 12 oz | Uncooked, broken into 2-inch pieces |
| Ricotta Cheese 🧀 | 1 ½ cups | Whole milk, full-fat preferred |
| Marinara Sauce 🍅 | 2 ½ cups | High-quality, homemade or store-bought |
| Chicken Broth 💧 | 4 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Heavy Cream 🥛 | ½ cup | Full-fat for best texture |
| Ground Beef 🥩 | 1 lb | 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio |
| Yellow Onion 🧅 | 1 whole | Medium size, diced |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 4 cloves | Fresh, minced |
| Mushrooms 🍄 | 8 oz | Cremini or white, sliced |
| Tomato Paste 🍅 | 2 tbsp | Smooth, no salt added |
| Fresh Basil 🌿 | ¼ cup | Chopped, for garnish |
| Parmesan Cheese 🧀 | ½ cup | Freshly grated, for topping |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 ½ tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ½ tsp | Freshly ground |
The ricotta and Parmesan are the stars here—Wegmans has excellent quality, especially their whole-milk ricotta. Grab the full-fat version (it keeps the soup creamy without feeling heavy) and grate your own Parm—pre-grated tastes like sawdust. For the noodles, store-bought lasagna noodles work perfectly, but if you're feeling fancy, fresh egg noodles add that extra silkiness. The ground beef? 80/20 ratio is key—it stays juicy while browning. If you're vegetarian, swap for crumbled Italian sausage or lentils.
No ricotta? Cottage cheese blended until smooth works in a pinch (though it's not identical). Short on mushrooms? Spinach or zucchini adds color and texture. The marinara can be homemade or store-bought—just make sure it's chunk-free (blend if needed). For extra depth, sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until they're golden—don't skip this step. It builds the flavor base. And if you're prepping ahead, cook the noodles partially (al dente) before adding them to the soup—this keeps them tender without turning mushy.
This soup tastes even better the next day—flavors meld beautifully when reheated. Store leftovers in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze for 3 months. I like to portion it into containers with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top—ready for quick lunches. For serving, crusty bread is a must (Wegmans' sourdough is perfect), or a simple arugula salad cuts through the richness. The secret to the perfect bowl? Let it sit for 5 minutes after reheating—the noodles soak up all that delicious broth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No Boil Required: I swear by this shortcut—just layer the no-boil lasagna noodles straight into the simmering broth. No waiting for water to boil, no soggy noodles, just hands-off magic while the flavors meld.
- Creamy Without the Fuss: That heavy cream and ricotta blend? It’s the secret weapon. One quick whisk, and you’ve got that velvety, restaurant-style richness—no straining or tempering required.
- Game for Any Day: Pack it for lunch, serve it at a potluck, or freeze half for later. The noodles hold up perfectly, and the broth stays hearty—whether it’s a rushed Tuesday or a cozy Sunday.
- Budget-Friendly Luxury: Ricotta and heavy cream feel indulgent, but they stretch across a big pot. A single batch feeds six, and leftovers reheat like a dream—no dry edges, just pure comfort.
Step-by-step instructions for Wegmans lasagna soup
Here's how to create that cozy lasagna experience in soup form—rich, layered flavors without the baking.
Cook the Lasagna Noodles Al Dente
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add the 12 oz lasagna noodles. Cook for 8-10 minutes until they're tender but still have a slight bite—you want them to hold their shape when drained, not mushy. The noodles should float to the surface when they're ready. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents them from overcooking later when they sit in the hot soup.
While the noodles cook, I like to taste the water about 2 minutes before the package directions. If they're perfectly al dente, drain them right away. The slight firmness ensures they'll hold up when layered in the soup. Don't skip this step—overcooked noodles turn to paste in soups.
Sauté the Meat and Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the 1 lb ground beef over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, breaking it into small pieces. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside. In the same pot, add 1 whole yellow onion and 8 oz mushrooms, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened and golden.
Stir in the 4 cloves garlic cloves and 2 tbsp tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. This step builds deep flavor—the caramelized onions and mushrooms create that rich, meaty base we crave in lasagna. Don't rush this part; let the vegetables develop color and texture. If the pot gets dry, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent burning.
Build the Layered Flavor Base
Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in 2.5 cups marinara sauce and 4 cups chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is where the magic happens—the sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich, tangy depth.
Here's the thing—this simmering step reduces the liquid just enough to create that perfect soup consistency. You want it thick enough to coat the noodles but still spoonable. If it gets too thick, add a splash more broth. The goal is a soup that feels substantial, like a hearty hug in a bowl.
Layer in the Cheeses and Finish
Reduce heat to low and stir in the 1.5 cups ricotta cheese and 0.5 cup heavy cream. Let the mixture warm through for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the ricotta melts completely into the soup. This creates that creamy, velvety texture that makes lasagna soup so comforting. Don't let it boil—just warm through gently.
Finally, add the cooked lasagna noodles and stir until they're evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with 1.5 tsp salt and 0.5 tsp black pepper. The soup should be rich but not overpowering. If it needs more depth, add a splash more marinara sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serve Warm with Fresh Garnishes
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with 0.25 cup chopped fresh basil and 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese. The basil adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors, while the parmesan brings that salty, umami kick. Serve immediately while hot—this soup tastes best fresh from the pot when all the flavors are at their peak.
For extra comfort, I like to serve it with crusty bread on the side. The bread soaks up all that delicious broth, and the crispy texture contrasts perfectly with the creamy soup. This dish delivers all the comfort of lasagna in one easy-to-eat bowl—no dishes required!
Pro Tips For Making Wegmans Lasagna Soup
- Pre-Cook Noodles First: The Wegmans recipe might call for raw noodles, but trust me—cooking them first saves you from a gummy mess. Boil them al dente (1 minute less than package time), drain, and shock in ice water to stop cooking. This keeps them from turning to mush when simmered in the soup later.
- Salt the Ricotta: Ricotta’s bland by nature, so season it before adding it to the soup. Mix in ½ teaspoon salt (and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re fancy) per 8 oz—this way, it blends evenly instead of clumping or tasting like plain cream cheese.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: After combining everything, keep the heat at a gentle simmer—not a rolling boil. I learned this the hard way: boiling turns the noodles to glue and breaks the cream. Stir occasionally and let it bubble softly for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in Cream Last: Heavy cream curdles fast, so wait until the very end to fold it in. Remove the pot from heat, stir it in gently, then return to low heat just to warm through—no higher. This keeps the soup silky, not split.
Health benefits of this recipe
Protein-Packed Comfort
This lasagna soup delivers a satisfying 30 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of ground beef, ricotta, and lasagna noodles.
The 80/20 ground beef provides lean protein while keeping the soup rich and meaty, while the ricotta adds a creamy, high-protein element that makes it feel indulgent without being heavy. For vegetarians, swapping in lentils or plant-based ground "meat" maintains that protein punch while keeping the dish hearty. 💪
Rich in Calcium
The ricotta and Parmesan cheese in this soup are calcium powerhouses, providing 25% of your daily needs per serving. Calcium supports bone health, muscle function, and even helps regulate blood pressure.
Using full-fat ricotta ensures you get the maximum calcium benefit without compromising creaminess. I always opt for Wegmans' whole-milk ricotta—it's the perfect balance of richness and nutrition.
Complex Carbs for Energy
The lasagna noodles provide complex carbohydrates that fuel your body with sustained energy, unlike simple sugars that cause energy crashes. Cooking them al dente preserves their texture and nutritional benefits.
Pairing these carbs with protein and healthy fats from the beef and cream creates a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied for hours. This is why this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or post-workout meals.
Fiber for Digestion
While this recipe doesn't include beans or vegetables with high fiber content, the mushrooms and onions contribute 3 grams of fiber per serving, supporting healthy digestion. For an extra fiber boost, stir in 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini during the final simmer.
Fiber helps regulate blood sugar and keeps you feeling full longer—great for maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day.
Vitamin Boost
This soup is packed with essential vitamins from its ingredients. The mushrooms provide vitamin D (especially if exposed to sunlight before cooking), while the basil garnish adds vitamin K and vitamin A.
The garlic and onions contribute vitamin C and B vitamins, which support immune function and energy metabolism. It's a one-bowl meal that sneaks in nutrients without sacrificing flavor. ✨
Low-Calorie Comfort
Despite its rich taste, this lasagna soup averages 450 calories per serving, making it a lighter alternative to traditional lasagna (which can exceed 600 calories per slice). The combination of broth, vegetables, and lean protein keeps the calorie count in check while delivering maximum satisfaction.
It's the perfect comfort food for those watching their waistline but still craving indulgence.
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this lasagna soup without ground beef?
For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for 1 lb Italian sausage or 1.5 cups cooked lentils. Mushrooms and onions will still provide that meaty texture, while lentils add fiber and protein. If you prefer plant-based options, try crumbled Beyond Meat or tempeh—just brown them first to develop flavor. The soup will still be hearty and satisfying.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Cook the lasagna noodles al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions) and rinse them with cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and helps them hold their shape. When adding them to the soup, stir gently and avoid over-simmering—keep the heat at low once everything's combined. The key is timing: noodles should cook in the soup for just 5-10 minutes max.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze for 3 months. When reheating, warm it on low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Pro tip: Freeze portions with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top—the cheese stays fresh when thawed.
What's the secret to making it extra creamy?
The ricotta and heavy cream create that signature lasagna creaminess, but for extra richness, try these tweaks: Use full-fat ricotta (Wegmans' whole-milk version is ideal), stir in 2 tbsp mascarpone cheese with the ricotta, or add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan at the end. For a lighter option, replace half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt—it adds protein while keeping the texture smooth.
Can I use fresh lasagna noodles instead of dried?
Fresh egg noodles work beautifully—they cook faster and add a delicate texture. Use 12 oz fresh lasagna noodles (or regular egg noodles) and cook them for just 3-4 minutes until tender. Since they're already egg-enriched, they'll hold up well in the soup without needing the al dente treatment. The soup will have a silkier mouthfeel, but the flavor remains the same. Perfect for when you want to splurge!
