To Die For Tuesday!

Last night for dinner I tried a new recipe called Lasagna Soup. Let me tell you, it is AWESOME. While this isn't exactly the healthiest recipe in the world, it's definitely not terrible for you, and it is definitely better for you than regular lasagna. Consider this a low carb alternative! I'm all about trying to be low carb and low sugar, and this recipe fits the bill relatively well. Here's the recipe:

Lasagna Soup:
1 1/2 lbs Italian sausage
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic minced or pressed
2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
3 tblsp tomato paste
1 28 oz can fire roasted tomatoes, undrained
2 bay leaves
6 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil or 2 tblsp dried basil
1/2 lb rotini noodles (or your preferred kind), cooked and drained

Cheese Topping: (this is to die for)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup parmesan
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp dried basil
2 cups mozzarella

In a large 4 quart pot, add the italian sausage and cook over medium heat. After approximately 3-4 minutes, add the onion. Cook together, stirring occasionally until cooked (around 5-7 minutes). Drain grease. Stir in garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Cook 1-2 minutes stirring constantly. Add the diced tomatoes, bay leaves, chicken broth, and basil. Bring soup to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Season soup with salt and pepper to taste.
For cheese mixture, combine ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, and basil. Set aside.
To serve, add a scoop/handful/however much you want to bottom of bowl then scoop soup on top w/ generous dollop of cheese mixture. Sprinkle with mozzarella.

Because you are putting your own noodles in, you are reducing the amount of carbs that is in normal lasagna. The 'soup' is also thick, so you don't even really feel like you're eating soup. This is so easy and it makes a lot. I split the recipe in half for my husband and me and we still have plenty of leftovers. It is still just as good the next day, as I found out today when I reheated some for lunch! My husband loved it because it was really flavorful with all the different spices; I only added a small amount of salt and pepper.
So next time you're craving for some carb-filled lasagna, you might try this healthier alternative! Can you say YUM?