Lasagna Soup

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1/2 pound ground beef

• 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage

• 1 onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, and pepepr

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as broken lasagna noodles or small shells)

• 1-2 cup ricotta cheese

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

For the Roux:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and, seasoning blend of your choice. Bring the soup to a boil.

4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

6. In a small saucepan, prepare the roux by melting the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly.

7. Gradually whisk the roux into the simmering soup to thicken it. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

9. To serve, divide the cooked pasta among serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup over the pasta.

10. Top each bowl with ricotta cheese.

11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color. ( I use Gourmet Garden's lightly dried Italian Herbs)

12. Serve your hearty Lasagna Soup with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.