Spooky Lasagna Soup

https://homeiswheretheboatis.net/2013/09/28/spooky-lasagna-soup-winners/

Makes 13 Spooky Servings

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 1/4 pounds lean ground beef (I used “meatloaf mix”, a blend of beef, pork & veal)

1 large onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

2 tablespoons tomato paste

8 cups chicken broth

1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

2 bay leaves

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups fusilli pasta, cooked & drained (I used rotini)

small fresh mozzarella balls

slices pimento-stuffed olives

Directions

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook 5 – 7 minutes, or until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat. Add garlic, onion, oregano, and basil; cook, stirring frequently for 5 minutes or until onion is tender.

Stir in tomato paste. Stir in chicken broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt; bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.

Stir in cooked pasta; simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat; discard bay leaves. Ladle into bowls, garnish with mozzarella balls and top each ball with an olive slice.