In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and sausage until browned. Season with salt and pepper as you cook. Drain grease and remove meat from the pot.

In a large pot heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute or two.

Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, spices, and broth. Return meat to pot.

Bring to boil then add lasagna noodles (broken into 4ths) to pot and reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender. Add spinach, if using.

In a small bowl, stir together mozzarella, Parmesan and ricotta cheeses.

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and dollop a scoop of the cheese mixture on top. Garnish with fresh basil.