Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy White Lasagna Soup! This delightful twist on traditional lasagna combines all the rich and cheesy flavors you love with the ease of a warm soup. Imagine a luscious, creamy base enveloping tender lasagna noodles, zesty Italian sausage, and vibrant fresh spinach. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare. Gather your loved ones and experience the heartwarming essence of homemade comfort food in every savory spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
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, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until it’s beautifully browned. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a lighter soup.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing them together until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any little bits of flavor clinging to the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream, mixing until the ingredients combine into a rich, creamy texture.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and Italian seasoning, allowing them to cook for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are perfectly tender.
- Fold in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt for a couple of minutes, adding a pop of color and nutrition to your soup.
- Mix in the ricotta cheese along with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a fragrant finish.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors beautifully. This soup also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later – just make sure to cool it completely before storing!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe effectively utilizes the one-pot cooking technique, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. Sautéing the meat and vegetables first helps build a robust base, while simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stirring in the cream and cheese at the right moment ensures a luxuriously creamy soup. Don’t rush the steps; savor the aroma as they come together!
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What if I don’t have all the cheeses?
While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan bring a lovely creaminess and flavor profile, you can substitute with whatever cheese you have on hand, such as cottage cheese or a blend of your favorites.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it altogether and load up on additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version!
Conclusion
Indulging in a bowl of Creamy White Lasagna Soup doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your heart as well. This delightful recipe is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together, creating memories over bowls of cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite. So grab a spoon and enjoy every comforting, creamy bite!