- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. - 1 lb ground beef 
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. - 1 medium onion, 3 cloves garlic 
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with their juices and stir to combine everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. - 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes 
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. - 4 cups chicken broth, to taste salt and pepper 
- Add the small pasta noodles directly into the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until noodles are tender and the soup has thickened slightly. - 8 oz small pasta noodles 
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and gooey, creating a creamy layer on top of the soup. Let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly and absorb some of the broth. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor. - fresh basil or parsley 
- Serve the lasagna soup hot, with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors in every spoonful.