High Protein Lasagna Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground turkey or lean ground beef (or use chicken/turkey sausage for extra flavor)

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth

2 cups water

2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

1/2 cup whole wheat lasagna noodles (broken into smaller pieces, or use gluten-free noodles if preferred)

1 cup ricotta cheese (or use cottage cheese for a lighter option)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Cook the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey or beef over medium heat until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Add the liquids: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken or beef broth, and water. Mix well.

Season: Add the oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

Cook the noodles: Bring the soup to a simmer, and then add the broken lasagna noodles. Cook according to the package directions (typically about 10-12 minutes) until the noodles are tender.

Make it creamy: Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheeses are melted and incorporated.

Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with extra mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for garnish.

Tips:

You can add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for even more nutrition and color.

For a higher protein option, consider adding a scoop of unflavored protein powder to the soup base (mix it into the broth before adding noodles).

Enjoy your high-protein lasagna soup! It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with protein!