Introduction
Warm up your kitchen and your hearts with this delightful White Lasagna Soup! It’s a creamy, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a cozy, one-pot soup. The rich combination of Italian sausage, creamy cheeses, and fresh spinach creates a burst of flavors that is simply irresistible. Perfect for a chilly evening or anytime you crave a delicious and hearty meal, this soup will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 12 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until it’s browned and aromatic, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and allow the mixture to return to a simmer, creating a luscious base for your soup.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles, and cook according to the package instructions until they reach that perfect al dente texture.
- In a separate bowl, blend together the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan until creamy and smooth.
- Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the ricotta mixture, followed by the fresh spinach, dried basil, and dried oregano. Watch as the spinach wilts into the soup.
- Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste, letting it simmer for an additional 5 minutes for all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve hot, garnished with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting it melt slightly before digging in.
Notes or Tips
This White Lasagna Soup is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. For a lighter version, swap half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or chicken broth. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices! You can also prepare the soup ahead of time; just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
Cooking Techniques
Using a large pot gives you plenty of space to sauté the sausage, onions, and garlic, which helps build layers of flavor. Be sure to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Mixing the cheeses together before adding them to the soup ensures a creamy consistency without clumps. Lastly, simmering the soup rather than boiling it after adding the noodles keeps everything tender and delicious.
FAQ
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for that meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a wonderful flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For a longer shelf-life, consider freezing it in portions. Just be aware that the noodles may become softer upon reheating.
Is it okay to add more cheese?
Of course! Feel free to add more mozzarella or any cheese you love. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a garnish will also elevate the dish beautifully!
Conclusion
There you have it—a warm, inviting bowl of White Lasagna Soup that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t forget that a little extra cheese on top never hurts!