Easy Lasagna Soup

INGREDIENTS

• 10 lasagna noodles
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup onions chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic minced
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes (I used basil, oregano, garlic kind)
• 30 oz canned tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke optional
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• salt & pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped

Garnish

• ricotta cheese (optional)
• mozzarella shredded
• fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS

Prepare The Noodles

1. Cook lasagna noodles al dente according to package and drain.
2. Let noodles cool and then cut into bite-sized squares. Set aside.

Prepare the Soup

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and add onions.
2. Saute until onions are tender and then add garlic.
3. Cook garlic until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef and cook until beef is browned, and then drain off the fat.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
6. Stir in basil, oregano, parsley, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
7. Taste and add salt and pepper and adjust seasonings to your liking.
8. Add bay leaf and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
9. Stir in prepared lasagna noodles.
10. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
11. Ladle into bowls and top with a dollop of ricotta (if using), shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh parsley.

Here's another variation with a slight twist.  Putting a dollop (or "dumpling") of cheese on top of each bowl.