Have you ever had one of those cozy evenings where the wind howls outside, but you’re warm and toasty inside, a bowl of rich soup cradled in your hands? That’s the magic of comfort food! A few winters back, I stumbled across this gem of a recipe for White Lasagna Soup while browsing through my favorite food blog. As soon as I took my first spoonful, it felt like coming home to a hug. It has all the flavors of classic lasagna but in a delightful, slurpable soup form!
This White Lasagna Soup is everything you could want on a chilly evening. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with the classic flavors of lasagna cheese, fresh herbs, and comforting pasta. It’s easy to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight dinner, and the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Join me in celebrating this soul-soothing dish that’s sure to become a fast favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Weeknight Dinner: This soup comes together in about 30 minutes! Ideal for busy evenings when you just want to unwind.
- Budget-friendly: With simple, readily available ingredients, it won’t pinch your wallet.
- Comforting Flavors: It combines the best of cheesy lasagna and a warm soup – perfect for any pasta lover!
- Customizable: Add in your favorite vegetables or protein to make it truly your own.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic packs a stronger punch than powder!)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The kitchen will start to smell heavenly! Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Brown the Meat: Toss in the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes. Drain excessive grease, if necessary. There’s just something about browned meat that brings a comforting depth of flavor!
- Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any tasty brown bits on the bottom of the pot (those bits add flavor!). Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Cream and Spinach: Stir in the heavy cream and add the fresh spinach. Let it wilt gently into the soup.
- In with the Noodles: Toss the broken lasagna noodles into the pot and let everything simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally! You don’t want those noodles to stick together.
- Cheesy Goodness: Once the noodles are cooked, add the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melty and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. The smell at this point? Pure bliss!
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and some fresh basil for a pop of color!
Pro Tips & Variations
Want to make this recipe even more delightful? Here are some of my favorite twists:
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage!
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses—try goat cheese for a tangy twist or sharp cheddar for a new flavor profile.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheeses to keep it creamy.
Serving Suggestions
When serving White Lasagna Soup, I love to set the scene for a cozy dinner. Picture this: a warm crusty baguette toasted with a swipe of butter on the side, a light arugula salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, and perhaps a glass of your favorite white wine to sip while you enjoy each comforting spoonful. If you want to go the extra mile, a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of chili oil on top adds not just flavor but a lovely visual touch too!
Storage Tips
Leftovers? Yes, please! This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed. It’s so satisfying to have a warm bowl of this soup ready to go on a busy day!
FAQs
Can I use another type of protein besides sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great, and you can even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to add in some extra veggies for flavor and texture!
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water, or simply let it simmer longer to reduce some of the broth. Just keep an eye on it and stir frequently!
What if I want to make this recipe gluten-free?
No problem! Just swap out the lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. The flavor will still shine, and the soup will remain delicious!
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
You can definitely prepare the soup ahead of time! Just keep the noodles separate until you’re ready to eat, as they can get mushy when stored in the soup. Reheat the soup on the stovetop and add in the noodles to cook just before serving!
After you’ve tried making this comforting White Lasagna Soup, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you add your own twist? Or maybe you enjoyed it with some delicious sourdough bread? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts! Cooking is all about sharing experiences, and I can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own!
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