If you’re craving a soul-warming meal with layers of rich flavors and comforting textures, the Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes that beloved traditional lasagna flavor profile and transforms it into a warm, spoonable experience that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The robust venison, blended with a luscious tomato base and the perfect medley of cheeses, creates a satisfying bowl that’s ideal for chilly evenings or anytime you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough to impress guests, making it a must-try recipe for any soup lover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right will ensure your soup bursts with flavor and texture in every spoonful. This list is straightforward, using quality staples that come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of heartiness, creaminess, and aromatic spices.
- 2.25 lb venison (ground and browned): Using venison adds a rich, gamey depth that elevates the soup beyond ordinary beef-based recipes.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: A good olive oil helps to brown the meat and soften the onions, bringing out their sweetness.
- 1 large onion (finely diced): Adds a natural mellow sweetness and texture contrast to the soup.
- 6 garlic cloves: Garlic injects a bold, savory aroma that makes each bite sing.
- 5.5 cups chicken broth: The savory base that keeps the soup light but flavorful; Swanson is a reliable go-to.
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes: Provides juicy, tangy chunks that brighten up the broth.
- 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes: Adds body and richness to the tomato soup base.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a deeper, more concentrated taste.
- 3 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that perfectly complements the meats and tomatoes.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Offers an herbal freshness to balance the heartiness.
- 1/2 tsp sugar: A tiny touch to round out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors.
- 10 lasagna noodles (broken into 2-inch pieces): These add delightful pasta bites throughout the soup.
- 4 tbsp butter: Adds creaminess and smoothness; Kerrygold unsalted butter is best for a clean finish.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded): Melts beautifully to create cheesy ribbons in the soup.
- 8 oz ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, luscious texture that you’ll love in every spoonful.
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated): For a nutty, salty kick that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Venison
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot on medium-high heat. Add the ground venison and cook until browned all over, ensuring it develops a rich caramelized flavor. This step lays the foundation for your soup’s depth and richness. Drain any excess fat if necessary so the final broth isn’t greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, add the finely diced onions to the browned meat and cook until they soften and turn translucent. Then toss in the minced garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant. These aromatics create the sweet, savory backbone of your soup’s flavor.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring this vibrant mixture to a simmer, allowing all those flavors to meld into a beautifully rich, savory broth.
Step 4: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Break the lasagna noodles into 2-inch pieces and add them straight to the simmering soup. Let them cook until tender but not mushy, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. The noodles soak up the delicious broth, becoming hearty and filling.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Butter
Stir in the butter for a luscious, creamy finish, then fold in the shredded mozzarella. Add dollops of ricotta cheese and sprinkle parmesan on top to create those signature cheesy layers reminiscent of classic lasagna. The cheese melts into the soup, making every spoonful decadently luscious.
How to Serve Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your soup bowl with a sprinkle of extra parmesan or fresh basil leaves to add a pop of fresh flavor and color. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a delightful finishing touch that brightens the flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve this soup alongside a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread for dipping. The crunchy bread is perfect for soaking up that rich tomato broth, while a fresh salad balances the meal with a cool, crisp bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or rustic ramekins. Layer dollops of ricotta spooned on top in little clouds, or sprinkle extra mozzarella so it browns slightly under a quick broil for an extra cheesy crust. These little touches make your meal feel festive and extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Because of the pasta, it’s best to slightly undercook the noodles before freezing to prevent mushiness after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the soup if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer. Avoid microwaving for better texture and flavor retention.
FAQs
Can I substitute beef for venison in this recipe?
Absolutely! While venison gives a unique, rich flavor, ground beef is a great substitute if venison isn’t available. It will still provide a lovely hearty base for your lasagna soup.
Is this soup spicy?
Nope, the Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe isn’t naturally spicy, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste if you want a little heat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
While the venison is a star ingredient for this recipe’s flavor, you can swap it out for mushrooms or plant-based crumbles to keep that hearty texture while making it vegetarian-friendly.
Why do I need to break the lasagna noodles?
Breaking the noodles into smaller pieces helps them cook evenly in the soup and makes the dish easier to eat by spoon, mimicking the texture of lasagna in a soup form.
What cheese works best for this soup?
Mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan are traditional for that true lasagna flavor and consistency. Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better, ricotta provides creaminess, and parmesan adds a salty umami punch.
Final Thoughts
When you’re ready to dive into a bowl of something truly comforting and packed with flavor, the Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal that brings all your favorite lasagna elements into a warm, inviting soup. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with family and friends on those chilly nights.
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Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Hearty Venison Lasagna Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines the rich taste of ground venison with classic Italian seasonings and cheeses. This soup features tender chunks of lasagna noodles simmered in a robust tomato and chicken broth base, layered with aromatic onion, garlic, and an Italian herb blend. Finished with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, this dish offers the essence of lasagna in a warming, easy-to-make soup perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 2.25 lb ground venison (browned)
- 1 large onion (finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
Liquids and Tomatoes
- 5.5 cups chicken broth (preferably Swanson)
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (Hunt’s preferred)
- 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasonings
- 3 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Pasta and Cheese
- 10 lasagna noodles (broken into 2-inch pieces)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (like Kerrygold)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded)
- 8 oz ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Venison: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground venison and cook until browned completely, stirring occasionally to break up the meat. This step enhances the flavor by caramelizing the meat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely diced onion to the browned venison and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in 5.5 cups of chicken broth, followed by diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly for a rich, tomato-based soup.
- Season the Soup: Stir in Italian seasoning, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 15 minutes.
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Break lasagna noodles into 2-inch pieces and add them to the simmering soup. Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted and incorporated. Remove the soup from heat and gently stir in shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and grated parmesan cheeses to create a creamy and cheesy texture.
- Serve: Ladle the hearty venison lasagna soup into bowls and top with additional parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy warm as a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using freshly shredded mozzarella cheese improves melting and texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Breaking lasagna noodles into small pieces helps mimic the classic lasagna layers in soup form.
- You can substitute ground beef or pork if venison is unavailable, though venison adds a unique deep flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the soup a slight spicy kick.
- Leftovers reheat well and flavors deepen after sitting overnight.
