The Story Behind My High-Protein Lasagna Soup

I’ve always loved a big bowl of lasagna soup on a chilly evening, but I wanted a version that felt even more nourishing and packed with plant-based protein. That’s how this High-Protein Lasagna Soup with Lentils and Kale came to life. It’s hearty, rich, and full of flavor yet totally meatless.

Instead of ground turkey or beef, I use lentils for a protein boost that’s naturally satisfying. The kale adds vibrant color and texture, while a touch of ricotta and Parmesan give it that signature creamy lasagna soup feel. It’s the perfect mix of wholesome and indulgent like a hug in a bowl that also happens to be one of my favorite high protein meals.

What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Greens

• 6 ounces whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 3 cups chopped kale (or spinach)

For the Creamy Finish

• ¼ cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
• Fresh basil, for garnish

These ingredients come together for a balanced meal that’s full of nutrients, flavor, and that Italian-inspired comfort we all crave.

How I Make My Lentil & Kale Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, I add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. They soften and caramelize slightly, creating that classic Italian cooking aroma that fills my kitchen.

Step 2: Add the Lentils and Tomatoes
I stir in the lentils, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Then I season with Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Once it starts to simmer, I cover and let it cook for about 20–25 minutes, until the lentils are tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Right in the Pot
Once the lentils are soft, I add the broken lasagna noodles. They cook in the same pot, soaking up all that tomato flavor one of the many reasons this is my favorite one pot lasagna soup trick.

Step 4: Stir in the Kale and Cheese
When the pasta is nearly done, I stir in the kale. It wilts beautifully into the soup, adding color and extra nutrients. Then I remove the pot from the heat and swirl in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The broth turns luxuriously creamy without feeling heavy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
I ladle the soup into bowls, top with basil, and finish with a dusting of Parmesan. It’s everything I love about Italian food simple ingredients, deep flavor, and pure comfort.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is proof that high protein dinner ideas don’t need to rely on meat to feel satisfying. The lentils bring over 18 grams of protein per serving, and they pair beautifully with the tender kale and creamy tomato base.

It’s also a great option for low carb high protein meals when you use fewer noodles or substitute them with zucchini ribbons. And because it’s all made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze ideal for lazy dinners that still taste restaurant-worthy.

If you’re a fan of lasagna soups, you’ll love exploring my collection:
Healthy Lasagna Soup with Ground Turkey and Spinach
Creamy Tomato Basil Lasagna Soup
One-Pot Vegetarian Lasagna Soup with Zucchini and Ricotta
Low-Carb Lasagna Soup with Cauliflower and Ground Chicken
Slow Cooker Healthy Lasagna Soup for Busy Weeknights

Creative Ways to Make It Your Own

• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a heartier veggie recipe.
• Creamier Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or extra ricotta.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes.
• More Protein: Use red lentils for a smoother texture and even higher protein count.
• Quick Soup Shortcut: Use canned lentils and pre-chopped kale to cut prep time in half for an easy dinner option.

And if you want a light side to serve alongside, try my mini caprese skewers or artichoke dip for a simple Italian-inspired touch.

What Makes It Perfect for Weeknights

This soup is hearty enough to serve as a full meal no sides required. It’s warm, filling, and full of clean ingredients that leave you satisfied without feeling stuffed.

It’s the perfect addition to your healthy easy dinner recipes lineup, especially when you want something high in protein and rich in flavor. It also reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep lunches throughout the week.

For a lighter companion dish, you can pair it with my tomato basil soup with grilled cheese croutons or even a small plate of prosciutto pasta for a pasta night that feels like pure comfort.

My Final Thoughts from the Stove

This High-Protein Lasagna Soup with Lentils and Kale is everything I want in a wholesome meal creamy, hearty, and packed with nourishing ingredients. It’s the kind of recipe that brings the satisfaction of pasta recipes and the health benefits of high protein meals together in one easy pot.

It’s a simple, soul-warming way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a bowl that loves you back.

Field	Details
Description	A hearty High-Protein Lasagna Soup made with lentils, kale, and creamy tomato broth. Comforting, nourishing, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients	1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion; 3 garlic cloves; 1 carrot; 1 celery stalk; 1 cup lentils; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 5 cups vegetable broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp chili flakes; salt and pepper; 6 oz lasagna noodles; 3 cups kale; ¼ cup ricotta; ¼ cup mozzarella; 2 tbsp Parmesan; basil.
Instructions	1. Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in olive oil. 2. Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, paste, and seasoning; simmer 25 min. 3. Add noodles and cook until tender. 4. Stir in kale and cheeses. 5. Garnish with basil and serve.
Notes	Use canned lentils for quicker prep. Add coconut milk for extra creaminess. Great for meal prep and freezes well.
Time	Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield	4–6 servings
Category	Soup
Method	One Pot
Cuisine	Italian
Diet	Vegetarian, High Protein
Keywords	high protein dinner ideas, high protein meals, easy dinner, low carb high protein meals, healthy easy dinner recipes, italian food, creamy lasagna soup, pasta recipes, cooking, one pot lasagna soup, italian food, creamy lasagna soup, lazy dinners, pasta recipes
Nutrition (per serving)	Calories: 410 Sugar: 9g Sodium: 640mg Fat: 13g Saturated Fat: 5g Unsaturated Fat: 7g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 52g Fiber: 10g Protein: 22g Cholesterol: 30mg