Lasagna Soup

 I may not make lasagna ever again! Only half kidding. This soup is really good and it is so simple to make. 

1 lb. ground beef (or half sausage half beef)

1 onion diced

4 minced garlic cloves

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

1 24 oz jar your favorite tomato sauce (I used tomato basil)

8-10 C chicken broth, divided

14 oz can crushed or diced tomatoes

2 Tbsp tomato paste (I don't think I actually had this)

2 tsp balsamic vinegar

1 1/2 tsp sugar

1 Tbsp dried basil

1 tsp dried parsley

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 bay leaf

15 lasagna noodles, uncooked (however many you like, I liked the noodles)

1/2 C Heavy Cream

Optional Toppings:

Parmesan Cheese

Mozzarella Cheese

Ricotta Cheese

Cottage Cheese

Heat large pot on stove. Add ground beef and onion and cook until beef is browned. Add garlic and red pepper and saute for 30 seconds. Drain any excess fat.

Add tomato sauce, 6 C chicken broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, spices, bay leaf, and lasagna noodles. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally (roughly 20-30 minutes)

Remove bay leaf and stir in the heavy cream and 2-4 cups of chicken broth to get the desired consistency. Add whatever cheese you prefer. (I just added parmesan the first time and it was delicious!)