White Lasagna Soup
White Lasagna Soup is one of those comforting dishes that warms your soul and fills your belly. After a long day, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness paired with a sprinkle of fresh basil. This recipe takes the classic concept of lasagna and transforms it into a cozy soup, making it perfect for chilly nights when you crave that hearty, satisfying flavor without the fuss of layering noodles. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, and I promise, it’s quick to whip up—ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why should you add White Lasagna Soup to your recipe rotation? For starters, it’s a breeze to make, and the flavors are irresistible. This dish is not only rich and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a large gathering or just yourself, this soup can be scaled to fit your needs, making it a budget-friendly option. Plus, it’s a kid-approved meal; what’s not to love about creamy cheese and pasta?
"I made this for my family last week, and it was a hit! Everyone kept asking for seconds. The flavors are so rich, yet it’s super easy to make. Definitely a new favorite in our house!" – Maria J.
Preparing White Lasagna Soup
Making this white lasagna soup is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s what you can expect: you’ll start by browning the meat and sautéing some aromatics, then you’ll add the broth and noodles to create a rich base. Finally, finish it off with a blend of creamy cheeses that create that signature lasagna taste. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and in just a little over 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delicious soup, gather these items:
- 1 lb ground meat (like sausage or chicken)
- 8 oz lasagna noodles
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Make sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s softened, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces (about 2 inches) and add them to the pot.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are tender, roughly 10-12 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and well blended.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and paired with crusty bread.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
White Lasagna Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Serve it in deep bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad complements the richness of the soup beautifully. It’s also delightful to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top right before serving for an added layer of flavor.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To make the most of any leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat.
Extra Advice for Success
To ensure your White Lasagna Soup is a hit every time, here are some tips:
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano and thyme.
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles; you want them tender but not mushy.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half or a lighter milk can be used, although it may change the creaminess slightly.
Creative Twists
Want to switch it up? Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground meat for mushrooms or zucchini for a meatless option.
- Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes when cooking the onions for a touch of heat.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrition and color.
Common Questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time takes around 20-25 minutes, making this a quick meal overall!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you need a lighter option, half-and-half or a plant-based cream can work well, although the soup may be slightly less rich.
White Lasagna Soup is sure to become a beloved addition to your cooking repertoire. With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, it’s not just a meal; it’s a reason to gather around the table!
White Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground meat (like sausage or chicken) Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat.
- 8 oz lasagna noodles Break into 2-inch pieces.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups heavy cream May substitute with half-and-half or a lighter milk.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh basil
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces (about 2 inches) and add them to the pot.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer until noodles are tender, roughly 10-12 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and blended.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and paired with crusty bread.
