Save A festive, comforting soup inspired by classic lasagna, featuring lean turkey, plenty of vegetables, and holiday flavors in a nourishing, hearty bowl.
I always enjoy making this soup during the holidays because it brings the warmth of lasagna in an easy to serve stew which my family loves.
Ingredients
- Lean ground turkey: 450 g (1 lb)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery stalks: 2, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Zucchini: 1, diced
- Fresh spinach: 1 cup, chopped
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (800 g / 28 oz)
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g / 14 oz)
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: 5 cups
- Whole wheat lasagna noodles: 200 g (7 oz), broken into bite-sized pieces
- Part-skim ricotta cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 60 g (1/2 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 30 g (1/4 cup)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): 2 tablespoons, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5 minutes).
- Step 2:
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Step 3:
- Stir in oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add broken lasagna noodles and simmer 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Step 6:
- Stir in chopped spinach and simmer for 2 minutes, until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7:
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta, a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan, and fresh herbs.
Pin it This recipe always brings my family together, especially during Christmas, sharing moments over a warm, hearty bowl.
Notes
For extra Christmas flair, garnish with red pepper flakes and parsley. Serve with crusty whole grain bread for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large soup pot, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board, ladle, and bowls for serving are needed to make this soup seamlessly.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese) and wheat (lasagna noodles). Double-check all labels for allergen cross-contamination if sensitivity is a concern.
Pin it This soup is perfect for any festive occasion; it delivers warmth, nutrition, and comfort in every bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Yes, replacing ground turkey with lentils or plant-based crumbles creates a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing texture.
- → What type of noodles works best here?
Whole wheat lasagna noodles broken into bite-sized pieces add body and absorb the broth well, but gluten-free versions can be used as preferred.
- → How do the cheeses enhance the dish?
The ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provide creamy, savory layers that balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enrich the overall flavor profile.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and flavors often deepen overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or festive gatherings.
- → What spices give this bowl its signature flavor?
Oregano, basil, thyme, and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes create a warm, aromatic base reminiscent of classic Italian seasoning.