If you’re craving something cozy, hearty, and packed with flavor—but don’t want the hassle of layering a traditional lasagna—turkey lasagna soup might just be your new favorite recipe. This easy-to-make soup takes all the rich, cheesy, tomatoey goodness of lasagna and transforms it into a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s lighter than the classic, thanks to lean ground turkey, but still gives you all the satisfaction of comfort food.
You’ll love how simple it is to throw together, how adaptable it is to dietary needs, and how well it stores for meal prep. Plus, you can make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even an Instant Pot.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Crockpot Ranch Chicken for another comfort-packed option.
Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.
Table of Contents
Turkey Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: PT45M
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Turkey Lasagna Soup is a cozy, cheesy, and hearty twist on classic lasagna. Made with lean ground turkey, rich tomato broth, and melted mozzarella, this one-pot comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping.
Ingredients
“1 lb lean ground turkey”,
“1 tablespoon olive oil”,
“1 medium onion, chopped”,
“3 cloves garlic, minced”,
“1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes”,
“1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes”,
“2 tablespoons tomato paste”,
“4 cups chicken or turkey broth”,
“6–8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces”,
“1 cup ricotta cheese”,
“1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese”,
“1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese”,
“2 teaspoons Italian seasoning”,
“Salt and black pepper, to taste”,
“1–2 cups baby spinach (optional)”,
“1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)”
Instructions
> Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
> Add onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
> Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
> Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
> Add broken lasagna noodles. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
> Stir in spinach, if using, and cook until wilted. Serve hot topped with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For best results, store pasta separately from the soup base.
This soup can also be frozen without pasta and cheese.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT35M
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
What Is Turkey Lasagna Soup?
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish
At its heart, turkey lasagna soup is a deconstructed version of classic lasagna. Instead of layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce, you simmer all the components in one pot, turning them into a savory, spoonable comfort dish. The soup base combines lean ground turkey with crushed tomatoes, aromatic herbs like oregano and basil, soft lasagna noodles (or any pasta), and a creamy dollop of cheese.
It’s like your favorite Italian meal gave itself a cozy, soupy makeover—and the result is pure comfort in a bowl.
Why This Soup Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
What makes this dish shine isn’t just its taste—it’s the convenience. Traditional lasagna takes effort: browning meat, making layers, baking for nearly an hour. With turkey lasagna soup, you cut the time dramatically without sacrificing flavor.
From prep to table, you can have dinner ready in under 45 minutes. The ingredients are simple pantry staples, and the dish is easily scalable to feed a crowd or freeze for later. It’s a go-to recipe for families, meal preppers, and anyone looking for a warm, hearty dinner without the mess.
Don’t miss our Smothered Chicken Recipe for another speedy dinner idea.
Key Ingredients for Turkey Lasagna Soup
Lean Ground Turkey and Its Health Benefits
The star of this soup is lean ground turkey, which offers a lighter alternative to traditional beef without skimping on flavor. It’s rich in protein, lower in saturated fat, and absorbs the bold Italian spices beautifully. Ground turkey makes this soup feel hearty without being heavy—perfect if you’re watching calories or just looking to eat a little cleaner.
If you prefer a bit more richness, you can also mix half ground turkey and half Italian turkey sausage for a punch of flavor with a lean twist.
Essential Pantry Items: Tomatoes, Herbs, Broth
This recipe thrives on pantry staples. You’ll need:
- Crushed tomatoes (or canned tomato puree for smoother texture)
- Diced tomatoes (adds chunk and body)
- Chicken broth or turkey stock (for depth)
- Tomato paste (for richness and umami)
- Garlic, onion, oregano, basil, and thyme (classic Italian seasonings)
These ingredients create a rich, tomato-based broth that ties the dish together. You can always adjust the herbs to your taste—add more garlic for boldness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Cheese, Pasta, and Optional Add-ins
No lasagna—even in soup form—is complete without cheese. In this version:
- Ricotta adds creaminess when dolloped into each bowl.
- Mozzarella gives that irresistible melt.
- Parmesan brings in salty, nutty sharpness.
Use broken-up lasagna noodles, or substitute with rotini, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta if that’s what you have on hand. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds up well in broth and captures the sauce.
Optional Add-ins:
- Spinach or kale for added nutrients
- Zucchini or mushrooms for texture
- White beans for extra protein and fiber
Turkey Lasagna Soup Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground turkey | 1 pound | Can mix with Italian turkey sausage |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Yellow or white onion works well |
| Garlic (minced) | 3–4 cloves | Fresh garlic enhances flavor |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 (28 oz) can | Base of the broth |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can | Adds chunk and richness |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | Deepens the flavor |
| Chicken or turkey broth | 4 cups | Use low-sodium if preferred |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons | Oregano, basil, thyme mix |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Adjust at the end |
| Lasagna noodles (broken) | 6–8 noodles | Or 2 cups of short pasta |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | For creamy finish |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup shredded | Stir in or sprinkle on top |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup grated | Optional but recommended |
| Baby spinach (optional) | 1–2 cups | Stir in at the end |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon | Optional for mild heat |
Discover great ideas like our Crockpot Ranch Chicken if you’re a fan of hearty, cheesy dinners.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
How to Cook the Ground Turkey Perfectly
The first step to making a rich, flavorful turkey lasagna soup is properly browning the turkey. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and break it up using a wooden spoon or spatula.
Cook until the turkey is no longer pink and begins to brown slightly—this caramelization adds real depth of flavor. Be sure to drain off any excess fat if needed, especially if you’re using a turkey blend that’s not super lean.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the turkey sit for a minute before stirring to allow a good sear to form.
Building the Flavor Base with Aromatics and Tomatoes
Once the turkey is browned, it’s time to infuse the soup with classic Italian flavor. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, stir in your tomato paste and allow it to cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This caramelizes the paste slightly and brings out its sweetness. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth, followed by Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes. This simmering process helps blend all the flavors beautifully.
Check out our comforting Ground Turkey and Rice Recipes for another hearty one-pot meal idea.
When and How to Add the Pasta and Cheese
Once your base has simmered, stir in the broken lasagna noodles (or your chosen pasta). Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If needed, add an extra splash of broth or water to maintain the soup consistency as the pasta absorbs liquid.
When the pasta is just shy of al dente, stir in the optional baby spinach or kale and cook until wilted—just a minute or two.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. The heat of the soup will gently melt the cheese into a gooey, creamy topping that mimics the layers of traditional lasagna.
Cooking Methods and Tools
Stovetop Instructions: One-Pot Wonder
The stovetop method is the most popular way to prepare turkey lasagna soup. It’s straightforward, fast, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Steps Recap:
- Sauté onion, garlic, and brown the ground turkey in a large pot.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook it down.
- Add tomatoes, broth, seasonings, and let everything simmer.
- Stir in pasta and cook until tender.
- Finish with spinach (if using) and serve hot with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.
Tool Needed: A large Dutch oven or deep soup pot with a heavy bottom works best for even heat distribution.
Cook Time: ~35 to 40 minutes total
This stovetop version gives you the most control over seasoning and texture. It’s ideal if you want to adjust things on the fly.
Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Variations
Want to let your kitchen do the work while you relax? The Instant Pot and slow cooker are great options for set-it-and-forget-it cooking, especially on busy days.
Instant Pot Instructions
- Use the Sauté mode to brown the turkey and onions.
- Add garlic and tomato paste; sauté briefly.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings.
- Cancel Sauté mode. Lock the lid and set to Pressure Cook on High for 5 minutes.
- Quick release, then stir in uncooked pasta. Use Sauté again and cook for ~5 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in spinach (optional), serve with cheeses.
Tip: Add an extra ½ cup of broth when using the Instant Pot to prevent scorching.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Brown the ground turkey, onions, and garlic in a skillet. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, seasonings, and tomato paste.
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Stir in uncooked pasta during the last 30–40 minutes of cook time.
- Add spinach before serving, top with cheeses.
This method works well for meal prep days or when feeding a crowd. The long simmer deepens flavor beautifully.
Discover great ideas like our Smothered Chicken Recipe for more hands-free dinner options.
How to Customize Your Turkey Lasagna Soup
Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Options
Trying to keep it light or avoid gluten? No problem. Turkey lasagna soup is incredibly versatile and can be adapted without losing its soul-warming comfort.
Low-Carb Swaps:
- Replace pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or ribboned yellow squash.
- Use riced cauliflower for a grain-free thickener.
- Add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or chopped bell peppers to increase bulk without carbs.
Gluten-Free Fixes:
- Use certified gluten-free lasagna noodles or gluten-free short pasta like brown rice rotini.
- Always check broth and canned tomatoes for hidden gluten sources.
With these tweaks, your soup remains filling, flavorful, and guilt-free.
Making It Vegetarian or Dairy-Free
If you’re cooking for different dietary needs or guests, this soup is easy to adapt.
For a vegetarian version:
- Omit ground turkey and add white beans, lentils, or plant-based ground “meat.”
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey stock.
- Toss in hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a meaty bite.
For a dairy-free version:
- Skip the ricotta and shredded cheeses or sub with plant-based alternatives like almond ricotta or coconut mozzarella.
- Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
You’ll still get the richness and depth of flavor—even without the meat or cheese.
Ideas to Spice It Up or Make It Kid-Friendly
This soup can please both heat-lovers and picky eaters with just a few small adjustments.
To spice it up:
- Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.
- Stir in fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky edge.
- Try spicy Italian turkey sausage in place of ground turkey.
To keep it kid-friendly:
- Stick to mild seasonings.
- Use small pasta shapes like shells or elbows (easier for little ones to eat).
- Blend some of the soup base if needed to create a smoother texture.
Check out our Crockpot Ranch Chicken for another comforting dinner little ones will love.
Tips for the Best Texture and Flavor
Thickening Tips Without Overcooking Pasta
One of the most common issues in lasagna soup recipes? Overcooked, mushy pasta. Here’s how to prevent that while still achieving a thick, hearty texture:
- Undercook the pasta slightly in the soup—pull it off the heat when it’s al dente. It will continue to soften in the hot broth.
- If prepping ahead, cook pasta separately and stir it in just before serving.
- To naturally thicken the soup without cream or starch, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
- Stir in a small spoonful of ricotta or grated Parmesan at the end for a thicker, creamier finish.
For added body, you can also puree a small portion of the soup (without pasta) and mix it back into the pot.
Balancing Acidity and Seasoning
A tomato-heavy soup like this can sometimes come off a bit too tangy. To get that rich, balanced flavor, try these easy tricks:
- Add a pinch of sugar (¼ to ½ teaspoon) to cut acidity.
- Use a splash of milk or half-and-half at the end to round out sharp tomato notes.
- Always taste before serving—don’t be afraid to adjust salt, pepper, or Italian herbs after simmering.
Fresh basil or a dash of balsamic vinegar can also bring brightness and complexity to the final dish.
How to Keep the Cheese Creamy and Smooth
Cheese can make or break the final experience. You want melty, creamy goodness—not a clump of stringy mess.
- Add cheese just before serving, not during boiling. High heat can cause it to separate.
- Use room-temperature ricotta or mozzarella, which blends more easily than cold.
- For soup that stays creamy longer, stir the ricotta directly into the broth for a fully incorporated texture.
If serving leftovers, add a fresh spoonful of cheese per bowl instead of reheating it inside the soup.
Learn more about cheese-melting secrets in our Ropa Vieja Recipe Slow Cooker.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Best Practices for Refrigeration
Turkey lasagna soup stores beautifully in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead or meal prep option. To preserve taste and texture, follow these simple steps:
- Allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If you’ve added cheese or pasta already, be aware that the soup may thicken as it chills.
Pro Tip: If possible, store pasta separately from the soup base to avoid mushiness.
To reheat, pour into a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed.
Freezer-Friendly Storage Method
Want to stock your freezer with hearty meals? Turkey lasagna soup freezes well—as long as you leave out the pasta and cheese.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Cool the soup completely.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for easy stacking).
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat.
- Cook fresh pasta separately and stir it in before serving.
- Add ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan just before eating.
Freezing soup with pasta already mixed in can lead to soggy noodles, so it’s best to freeze the base only.
Looking for inspiration? Try our The Best Way to Freeze Meatloaf (Raw or Cooked) for another perfect batch-cook idea.
How to Reheat Without Ruining the Texture
The key to delicious leftovers is gentle reheating. Avoid blasting the soup on high heat, which can overcook the pasta and curdle the cheese.
Stovetop method is best:
- Heat slowly over medium or low heat.
- Stir often to prevent sticking.
- Add broth to refresh the consistency.
Microwave method (individual servings):
- Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals.
- Stir between intervals for even heating.
- Add cheese on top only after microwaving to maintain creaminess.
With these tips, your turkey lasagna soup will taste just as satisfying on day three as it did fresh from the pot.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
What to Serve with Turkey Lasagna Soup
Turkey lasagna soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a simple side can turn your dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience. Whether you’re hosting guests or just feeding your family, here are some top pairings:
- Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Classic, buttery, and perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.
- Toasted Ciabatta or Sourdough: Adds a rustic crunch that complements the soft noodles.
- Crusty Whole Grain Rolls: For a healthier take that still satisfies.
Don’t skip the bread—it’s the best way to soak up that last bit of cheesy soup in the bowl.
Bread, Salad, or Wine Pairings for a Full Meal
Want to turn your turkey lasagna soup into a complete Italian-style dinner? Just add a crisp salad and your favorite beverage.
Salad Pairings:
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, and a creamy dressing contrast beautifully with the hot, cheesy soup.
- Arugula with Lemon Vinaigrette: Light and peppery, it balances the richness of the lasagna flavors.
- Caprese Salad: Tomato, mozzarella, and basil—because you can never have too much cheese.
Wine & Beverage Options:
- Chianti or Merlot: Medium-bodied reds complement the tomato and herbs.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Clean and refreshing for a lighter touch.
- Iced Tea or Citrus-Infused Water: Great family-friendly options that won’t overpower the meal.
Fun Serving Tips for Guests or Meal Prep
Hosting a dinner party or prepping lunches? Here’s how to take it up a notch:
- Serve in mini soup bowls with a small spoonful of cheese on top for appetizers.
- Offer a “build-your-own bowl” bar with toppings like ricotta, shredded mozzarella, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes.
- For meal prep, divide into single-serving containers and label with the day of the week.
Pro tip: Garnish each bowl with a fresh basil leaf or a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet presentation.
CONCLUSION
Turkey lasagna soup checks every box—it’s cozy, satisfying, nutritious, and weeknight-friendly. Whether you cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or with your Instant Pot, it comes together easily and feeds the whole family with flavor to spare.
It also stores beautifully, freezes well, and adapts to your tastes or dietary needs. From classic comfort to creative variations, this dish is a true keeper in any kitchen.
Don’t miss our Crockpot Ranch Chicken if you’re looking for another cheesy, protein-packed dinner.