Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna Soup – Fun Family Dinner is my secret weapon. It delivers all the cozy, cheesy comfort of lasagna without the hours of work or the expensive grocery bill.
I know how tough it can be to feed a family well on a budget. That’s why I created this recipe. It uses smart, affordable swaps to create a meal that is incredibly satisfying and fun for everyone at the table. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly comfort food, you’ll love our ultimate ground beef and potato casserole.
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick look at what you’re making. It’s straightforward and designed for a busy weeknight.
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Category: Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
Let’s break down why this dish is so kind to your wallet. It’s all about smart ingredient choices.
First, we use bow tie pasta instead of traditional lasagna noodles. It’s often cheaper and cooks right in the pot. This saves you time, energy, and money.
Second, the recipe relies on canned tomatoes and tomato sauce. These pantry staples are budget-friendly heroes that provide a rich flavor base without the cost of fresh, out-of-season tomatoes.
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. They help me keep my grocery costs low every single week.
Always buy your ground meat in larger, family-size packs. You can brown it all at once and freeze portions for future meals.
Opt for dried herbs instead of fresh. A jar of dried Italian seasoning is far more economical and lasts for months in your pantry.
Don’t shy away from store-brand items. Canned goods, pasta, and cheese are often identical to name brands but cost significantly less.
Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna Soup – Fun Family Dinner Recipe
PREPARATION
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna Soup – Fun Family Dinner Recipe!
Nutrition Information
PREPARATION
Here is everything you’ll need. I promise, nothing on this list will break the bank. For another great way to use up ripe bananas, try our soft and satisfying peanut butter banana protein muffins.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional for serving: fresh basil or parsley
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for a perfect result. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it all comes together.
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is soft.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. This builds a wonderful flavor foundation for your soup.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in the uncooked bow tie pasta. Let the soup return to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese until it melts into the soup. This creates a creamy, luxurious texture.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with the remaining mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
Being resourceful in the kitchen is a superpower. Here’s how to ensure nothing goes to waste with this recipe.
If you have leftover soup, it stores beautifully. Let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
The pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating. This brings it right back to the perfect soup consistency.
You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing it without the pasta for best results, then cooking fresh pasta when you reheat.
Nutrition Notes
While this is a comfort food, it’s also packed with good stuff. Here’s a general breakdown per serving.
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- This is a high-protein meal that will keep you full and satisfied for hours.
If you’re looking for more delicious ways to use bananas, don’t miss our fluffy vegan banana muffins.
Common Questions About This Recipe
I love hearing from you! Here are answers to a few questions I get asked all the time.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta will work well. Try rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
It’s very easy. Simply omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of rinsed lentils or kidney beans for extra plant-based protein.
My soup is too thick. What should I do?
No problem at all. Just stir in a little more broth or even some water until it reaches your desired consistency. The goal is a hearty, but still soupy, texture.
I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your home. It proves that you don’t need a fancy budget to put a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal on the table.
I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and your family. Let me know your own money-saving tips for this recipe in the comments below! Please leave a rating!
