Heat the olive oil in a large dutch oven over high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add the beef, sausage, and red pepper flakes. Cook, breaking up the meat as it cooks until browned all over, 10 minutes. Feel free to drain the fat from the meat if desired.
Once the meat is cooked through, add tomato paste and stir in well. Cook for 2 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, fennel seed, thyme, oregano, basil, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 20 minutes.
While the soup is cooking, bring a salted pot of water to a boil. Prepare the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain well. Then add to the soup, along with the mozzarella and heavy cream. Stir well. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Toast the bread. Then spread with butter and garlic.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a dollop of ricotta (if using), garlic bread, and sparkling water.