High Protein Lasagna Soup

Who doesn’t love a hearty bowl of lasagna? It’s cheesy, saucy, and downright comforting. But let’s be real, if you’re trying to eat better or pump up those muscle gains, lasagna might feel like a guilty pleasure. Enter High Protein Lasagna Soup—the delicious compromise you didn’t know you needed. This soul-soothing soup retains all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the heavy carbs. Let’s jump right into it!

The Bright Side of Lasagna Soup

You might be wondering, “Why soup instead of the classic baked lasagna?” Well, for starters, soup is a great way to sneak in extra veggies and proteins. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient. No baking time means more time for… well, anything else you want to do. Who wouldn’t want to spend less time in the kitchen?

Typically, lasagna can feel a bit like a time-consuming chore to prep. But soup? It’s your best friend. Chop, stir, and let it simmer—the ultimate win-win. 🙂

What Makes It High Protein?

So, what’s the secret sauce (pun absolutely intended) behind making this lasagna soup high in protein? It’s all about the ingredients! Here’s what you generally toss into the pot:

Lean Ground Meat

Turkey or Chicken: These lean proteins are fantastic for bulking up your soup without loading up on fat.
Ground Beef: For those of you who can’t resist a little red meat, opt for lean cuts to keep it healthier.

Pasta with Benefits

High-Protein Pasta: Ever heard of lentil or chickpea pasta? Not only do they hold up well, but they kick the protein content up a notch. Plus, they’re gluten-free!

Beans and Legumes

Cannellini or Kidney Beans: Adding a can can really boost your protein content. They’re also great for fiber, which we all need, because who likes dealing with digestive drama?

Cheese, Please!

Ricotta and Cottage Cheese: These luscious additions will give you that creamy texture without too many calories. Plus, they add a solid dose of protein.

Fantastic Flavor Profiles

Now that we’ve laid out the high-protein groundwork, let’s talk flavor. A lasagna’s got to be bursting with taste, and this soup is no exception! Here are some delicious ingredients to consider:

Herbs and Spices

Oregano and Basil: These two are classic Italian favorites. Fresh or dried, they instantly elevate your soup.
Garlic and Onion: You can’t go wrong with these flavor bombs. They make everything better, except maybe ice cream. 😜

Tomatoes, Tomatoes, and More Tomatoes

Crushed Tomatoes: They create the base for the soup, bringing in that essential tomato flavor.
Tomato Paste: A spoonful of this adds depth and richness. It’s like liquid gold for your soup!

How to Make High Protein Lasagna Soup

Alright, you’ve been patient long enough! Here’s how to whip up this deliciousness in your own kitchen:

Ingredients List

1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup high-protein pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 diced onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Brown the meat: In a large pot, cook the ground turkey (or chicken) over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add the flavor: Toss in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll impress anyone nearby!
Stir in the tomatoes, broth, and beans: This is where you’ll get that comforting soup base going.
Bring it to a boil: Throw in your pasta, herbs, salt, and pepper. Reduce to a simmer and let it cook until your pasta is perfectly al dente—about 8-10 minutes.
Top it off: Stir in ricotta cheese right before serving. It should melt into that glorious broth!
Serve it up: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. A quick broil in the oven can give it that bubbly, cheesy finish if you’re feeling frisky.

Pro Tip

Leftovers? No problem! This soup keeps well in the fridge and can even be frozen. Just remember, if you freeze it, the pasta might get a little mushy down the line, so you might want to cook pasta separately when reheating.

Wrap-up: Why You Need This Soup in Your Life

So there you have it! High Protein Lasagna Soup is easy to make, loaded with flavor, and a brilliant way to get that protein fix without feeling like you’re losing out on the joy of a hearty meal. Sure, it might not replace pizza night (because let’s face it, nothing can), but it’s an incredible option for busy weeknights or those cold winter evenings when all you want is a bowl of comfort.

If you haven’t given this recipe a shot yet, what are you waiting for? You’ll be singing its praises after just one slurp. As always, it’s okay to indulge every once in a while, but why not mix in something nutritious that tastes just as good? Lasagna soup, you’re officially my new bestie. Happy cooking, and may your soup adventures be ever cheesy! 🍜✨