Ingredients:
1 lb Ground Beef
1 lb Ground Italian Sausage
10 Lasagna Noodles
1 Onion, chopped
24 oz Jar of Pasta Sauce
4 tsp Garlic, minced
8 cups Chicken Broth
2 tbsp Tomato Paste
14 oz Can Diced Tomatoes
1 tsp Sugar
2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar
2 tsp Basil (dried or fresh, finely chopped)
1 tsp Oregano
1 Bay Leaf
Salt and Pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: Parmesan cheese, Mozzarella cheese, or Ricotta cheese
Instructions:
Preparation of Meat and Onion: In a large pot, over medium-high heat, sauté the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, and chopped onion until the meat is completely browned. Ensure you break apart the meat as it cooks for even browning.
Adding Aromatics: After draining any excess fat, return the pot to the heat, and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds or until the garlic releases its aroma.
Building the Base: Next, add in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Flavoring: Introduce the sugar, balsamic vinegar, basil, oregano, and bay leaf to the mix. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Simmer: Cover the pot and bring your mixture to a boil.
Adding the Noodles: While waiting for it to boil, break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. Once the soup reaches a boil, add in the noodle pieces.
Final Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the soup simmer until the lasagna noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the flavors, approximately 10-12 minutes.
Serving: Once done, ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of cheese – parmesan, mozzarella, or ricotta. Serve hot, and enjoy the melange of flavors dancing on your palate!
Pro Tip: For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of ricotta cheese to the soup before serving. Stir it in for a rich, creamy consistency reminiscent of classic lasagna layers.
This dish is perfect with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. Experience the wonders of lasagna in a whole new form, and relish every spoonful!