Lasagna Soup & What Your Home is Worth
Happy New Year! I'm kicking off 2026 with a brand new From My Kitchen episode, and this one's a winner. We're putting our own spin on Rachael Ray's Lasagna Soup – all the rich, comforting flavors of classic lasagna, but served in a bowl with a spoon. It's cozy, it's delicious, and it's the perfect meal for these chilly January nights.
But that's not all! This month, I'm answering THE question that's on every homeowner's mind: "What's my home worth?" The answer lies in something called a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), and I'm breaking down exactly what it is and how I use it to help my sellers price their homes perfectly.
Let's start with the soup!
Lasagna Soup
This soup is seriously incredible. Think savory Italian sausage, tender lasagna noodles swimming in a rich tomato broth, all topped with a dreamy ricotta mixture. It's lasagna reimagined in the best possible way – and so much easier than layering a traditional bake!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
• Salt
• 8 oz. lasagna noodles with curly edges, broken into pieces
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 12 oz. ground beef (80% lean)
• 12 oz. sweet Italian sausages with fennel, casings removed, or bulk sausage
• Pepper
• 1 tsp. (about 1/3 palmful) dried oregano, lightly crushed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 qt. chicken stock
• 1 can (28 oz.) whole San Marzano tomatoes
• 2 cups passata (uncooked tomato puree) or tomato puree
For the Ricotta Mixture:
• 1 cup fresh ricotta
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• Finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, for serving
Here’s How to Do It:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water and add the noodles. Cook until a few minutes shy of the package directions. Drain and rinse.
Step 2: In a soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the beef and sausage. Cook, occasionally stirring and breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the oregano. Add the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the stock and whole tomatoes. Use a spoon to smash the tomatoes. Add the passata and basil. Cook until the flavors meld, about 15 minutes. Add the noodles to the soup. Cook until al dente, 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta, Parm, and parsley.
Step 4: Serve the soup in bowls. Top each serving with a fat dollop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with extra parsley.
Understanding Comparative Market Analyses (CMAs)
If you're thinking about selling your home, the first question you probably have is: "What's my home worth?"
The answer comes from something called a Comparative Market Analysis, or CMA for short.
What Is a CMA?
A Comparative Market Analysis is a detailed report that I prepare for my sellers that analyzes and compares similar properties (called "comparables" or "comps") in your area. I look at recent sales of homes like yours to provide an accurate estimate of your property's current market value.
Think of it like the ricotta mixture in this lasagna soup – just like I'm combining the best ingredients to create something delicious, a good CMA combines the most relevant comparable sales to find your home's perfect price.
What Goes Into a CMA?
When I prepare a CMA for a client, I analyze:
• Recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood (typically within the last 3-6 months)
• Active listings currently on the market that compete with your home
• Pending sales that will soon close
• Expired listings that didn't sell (and why)
I compare factors like square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, lot size, condition, upgrades, and location to determine how your home stacks up against the competition.
Why Is a CMA Important?
Pricing your home correctly from the start is crucial! Price it too high, and you risk sitting on the market too long. Price it too low, and you leave money on the table. A well-prepared CMA helps us find that sweet spot – the price that will attract serious buyers and get you top dollar.
Ready to Know What Your Home Is Worth?
If you're thinking about selling in 2026, I'd love to prepare a comprehensive CMA for your home. There's no obligation – just valuable information to help you make the best decision for your family.
Let's talk! Reach out to me today, and let's find out what your home is really worth.
From my kitchen to yours – here's to a delicious and successful 2026!
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