Table of Contents
- 1 Why This Recipe Shines for Families
- 2 Key Benefits of Freezer Prep
- 3 Ingredients (Makes 6–8 Servings / Jars)
- 4 Equipment You’ll Need
- 5 Step-by-Step Instructions
- 6 Reheating Instructions
- 7 Variations & Customizations
- 8 Meal Prep Timing Tips
- 9 Storage & Safety Notes
- 10 Nutritional Insight (Approx. per Serving)
- 11 FAQs
- 12 Final Thoughts
Why This Recipe Shines for Families
Busy weeknights demand meals that are convenient, healthy, and delicious. This freezer-friendly lasagna soup gives you exactly that: a hearty, comforting meal prepped in one go that you can freeze and warm whenever needed.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
No pork, bacon, or alcohol—great for dietary flexibility
Fully freezer-compatible and easy to portion for family dinners
Frees up time during hectic weeknights
Filled with protein and veggies but customizable for taste
One pot base plus individual jar prep—minimal mess, maximum convenience
Key Benefits of Freezer Prep
Saves time and stress when planning meals
Helps reduce food waste with portioned jars
Easily adjustable ingredients for allergies or preferences
Makes weekday dinners feel effortless and cozy
Ingredients (Makes 6–8 Servings / Jars)
For the Soup Base (Freezer Portion)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1½ cups water
Salt & pepper, to taste
For Jar Layers
6–8 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces (whole wheat or GF if preferred)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for topping when reheating)
Equipment You’ll Need
Large pot or Dutch oven
Sharp knife & cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
6–8 freezer-safe mason jars with lids
Labels and pen to date each jar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base
Heat oil in a pot over medium. Sauté onion until softened, about 4 minutes.
Add garlic, basil, and oregano; stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Incorporate tomato paste and cook until darkened slightly.
Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and water. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Season to taste.
Pack Jars for Freezing
Let soup cool slightly. Ladle 1 to 1¼ cup of soup base into each jar—leaving 1 inch headspace for expansion.
Add a portion of broken noodles over top of the broth.
Add 2–3 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese on top of noodles.
Seal jar tightly, label with date and contents.
Freeze
Place jars upright in the freezer. The soup base portion can be made days in advance and kept in fridge before jar assembly.
Reheating Instructions
Thaw jar in fridge overnight or submerge jar in warm water until loosened.
Gently reheat on the stovetop in a pot, stirring occasionally.
If noodles aren’t fully cooked, let simmer until done.
Serve garnished with fresh herbs or an additional sprinkle of cheese, if desired.
Variations & Customizations
Add Protein: Substitute part of broth with cooked white beans or rotisserie chicken (layer into the jar, reheated right with soup).
Veggie Upgrade: Add steamed spinach, diced zucchini, or roasted eggplant in the jar for added nutrients.
Cheese Alternatives: Use plant-based cheese or keep cheese on the side to accommodate dietary needs.
GF Option: Swap noodles with gluten-free lasagna strips or gluten-free pasta shapes.
Meal Prep Timing Tips
Task | Timing |
---|---|
Make soup base | 30–40 minutes |
Jar assembly | 10–15 minutes |
Freeze & label | 5 minutes |
Reheat (day-of) | ~15 minutes |
Prep on weekends or evenings to build a stock of comforting dinners your family will love.
Storage & Safety Notes
Use jars designed for freezing—leave headspace to avoid cracking.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheat thoroughly until internal temp reaches 165°F for food safety.
Nutritional Insight (Approx. per Serving)
Calories: ~300 kcal
Protein: ~12 g
Fat: ~7 g
Carbs: ~45 g
Fiber: ~4 g
Family-friendly, balanced energy with portable convenience
(Adjust nutrition based on added protein or cheese changes).
FAQs
Can I freeze the soup base only?
Yes—freeze in a bag or container, then thaw and add noodles and cheese when serving.
Will the cheese solidify in the fridge?
Yes—it will. Just stir as the soup reheats to integrate melted cheese.
Do I need special jars?
Use any freezer-safe glass or BPA-free plastic container with 1 inch headspace to prevent cracking.
Can I add fresh herbs before freezing?
Better to add fresh basil/parsley after reheating—they stay vibrant that way.
Is this safe for kids?
Yes! Mild, filling, and customizable—perfect even for picky eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Freezer-Friendly Lasagna Soup is the ultimate family meal hack—offering all the cozy, cheesy goodness of lasagna made easy for busy schedules. With handy, portioned jars and minimal daily cooking, you’ll have satisfying, freezer-ready dinners that feel homemade. It’s smart meal prep with heart.