A Cozy Family Favorite: Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
Ah, Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup! This dish has become a comforting staple in my home, especially on chilly nights when we crave something hearty and warm. Picture a rich, velvety soup filled with all the flavors of traditional lasagna but in a delightful, spoonable format. It’s the perfect one-pot wonder that brings the whole family together around the table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You might be wondering why you should whip this up for dinner. Well, this cozy recipe offers an array of benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking just about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a budget-friendly meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters—kids and adults alike will appreciate the creamy texture and savory flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies with the addition of spinach and mushrooms.
"This soup changed my weeknight dinners forever! It’s so creamy and delicious. My kids ask for seconds every time!"
Preparing A Cozy Family Favorite: Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness of this recipe. It all comes together in a few simple steps. You’ll start by browning the sausage, sautéing some vegetables, and then simmering everything together in a rich broth. A quick creamy sauce is mixed in at the end to take it to the next level. The comforting warmth is guaranteed to wrap around you like a hug on a cold day.
What You’ll Need
To make this creamy indulgence, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 lb ground sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5 lasagna noodles, broken
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or a plant-based option if you prefer!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large saucepan, use medium heat to brown the ground sausage until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms; cook for about 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and baby spinach, and cook for an additional minute until the spinach wilts.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles, dried oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles become tender.
- Meanwhile, in a separate skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly until bubbling.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture is smooth and thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese. If it doesn’t melt right away, return it to low heat and whisk continuously until creamy.
- Slowly incorporate the cheesy mixture into the soup, whisking until everything is well combined.
How to Plate and Pair
To take your Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup to the next level, serve it in large bowls with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top. A dash of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate not just the flavor but the presentation too. Pair it with crusty bread for that perfect complement, or toss together a light side salad for balance.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be a blessing! Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to extend its life further, you can freeze it. Just be aware that the creamy texture might change a little upon thawing, so it’s best to consume it fresh. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.
Pro Chef Tips
- For a quicker version, use pre-cooked sausage or rotisserie chicken.
- Want to save time on chopping? Use a pre-packaged mirepoix mix!
- If you’re a spice lover, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also swap out the noodles; use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles. For a lighter option, you might try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or even a dollop of ricotta cheese on top just before serving.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make this soup?
This creamy delight can be ready in about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage for lentils or a plant-based sausage substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What’s the best way to store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month. Just remember that the texture might change once thawed, but it will still be delicious!
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for creating memories around the dinner table, it brings warmth and comfort with every ladle. Enjoy this cozy favorite with your loved ones!
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1/2 lb ground sausage Can swap for ground turkey or plant-based options.
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 5 pieces lasagna noodles, broken Can use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For the Creamy Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Add more for garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large saucepan, use medium heat to brown the ground sausage until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms; cook for about 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and baby spinach, and cook for an additional minute until the spinach wilts.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles, dried oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles become tender.
Creamy Sauce
- Meanwhile, in a separate skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly until bubbling.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture is smooth and thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese. If it doesn't melt right away, return it to low heat and whisk continuously until creamy.
Final Assembly
- Slowly incorporate the cheesy mixture into the soup, whisking until everything is well combined.
