There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and I recently stumbled upon a delightful twist that turned my weeknight dinner routine upside down: Creamy White Lasagna Soup. Each spoonful encapsulates the rich, luxurious flavors of traditional lasagna while offering the heartwarming essence of a cozy soup. Picture this: silky cream mingling with savory Italian sausage, melting cheese, and tender pasta that together, transform your typical fare into an extraordinary meal experience.
What makes this dish particularly special is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re on a lighter diet or seeking a vegetarian option, this soup can adapt to your cravings. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, it’s bound to impress both your family around the dinner table and guests at your next gathering. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this comforting culinary creation that promises to be a new favorite!
Why is White Lasagna Soup so irresistible?
Comforting warmth in every bowl makes this dish a perfect cozy dinner. Rich flavors of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and fresh spinach create a delightful harmony. Quick to prepare, you’ll have dinner on the table in just 35 minutes! Customizable for any diet, whether you go veg or lighten up, it can suit your needs. Great for gatherings, this soup is sure to impress family and friends alike!
White Lasagna Soup Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to a heartwarming bowl!
For the Soup Base
- Italian Sausage – Adds savory flavor and protein; substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Onion – Provides essential depth of flavor; there are no substitutions, as it’s crucial for aroma.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances overall taste; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth (6 cups) – Establishes the base flavor for the soup; opt for vegetable broth if making a vegetarian version.
- White Beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed) – Brings creaminess and protein; cannellini beans are a great swap or omit for a lower-carb option.
For the Creamy Texture
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates the signature creaminess of this dish; half-and-half can lighten it up.
- Spinach (2 cups, chopped) – Adds nutrition and beautiful color; feel free to use kale as an alternative.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 1/2 cups) – Contributes a rich and creamy elegance; cottage cheese works as a lower-fat substitute.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts beautifully for that indulgent experience; choose low-moisture mozzarella for optimal melting.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Introduces savory depth; nutritional yeast can be used for a non-dairy alternative.
For the Noodle Element
- Lasagna Noodles (8 oz, broken into pieces) – Forms the hearty body of the soup; gluten-free noodles can be used if preferred.
- Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; adjust according to your personal preference to enhance the soup’s flavor.
Make sure you have all these ingredients handy for your White Lasagna Soup adventure!
How to Make White Lasagna Soup
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Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside—this adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
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Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant—the aroma will be irresistible!
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Combine Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken broth and add the white beans. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
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Stir in the Cream and Greens: Add the heavy cream, chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheeses are melted and the soup is bubbling.
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Add Noodles: Gently toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Cook until tender, which should take around 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking.
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Return the Sausage: Bring the browned sausage back into the pot, and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste—adjust according to your preference!
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls while hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the creamy deliciousness!
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze White Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover White Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for optimal flavor preservation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in airtight containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal option!
Reheating: Reheat frozen soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Make Ahead: This soup actually benefits from being made ahead! It allows the flavors to deepen, enhancing its comforting taste when you serve it later.
White Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish and elevate the flavors with these exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream and ricotta with coconut cream and a vegan cream cheese alternative for a delightful dairy-free version.
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Vegetarian: Omit the Italian sausage and add roasted mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious, hearty twist.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the traditional lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta to enjoy the same comforting texture without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat to your warming bowl of soup.
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Extra Greens: Toss in additional leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for a nutrition boost and an even more vibrant color.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or thyme just before serving for a fragrant touch that will elevate every spoonful.
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Protein-Packed: Incorporate cooked chickpeas or lentils instead of beans for a hearty punch of plant-based protein.
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Flavor Boost: Consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy richness that complements the creamy base beautifully.
With these variations, you can make your White Lasagna Soup uniquely yours while keeping all the comfort and deliciousness!
Make Ahead Options
These White Lasagna Soup preparations are ideal for busy weeknights! You can sauté the onions and garlic, and brown the sausage up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the cooked components separately. The soup can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, just hold off adding the noodles until you’re ready to enjoy it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stove, then stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender. This keeps the noodles from becoming too mushy and ensures your soup remains deliciously creamy just like fresh preparation!
What to Serve with White Lasagna Soup?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that complement the rich creaminess of this pasta-infused soup.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: These golden slices infused with garlicky goodness add a satisfying crunch and are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
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Fresh Green Salad: A bright, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a lovely contrast to the creamy soup, balancing flavors perfectly.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, caramelized vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, introduce warmth and earthiness that harmonize beautifully with the soup’s richness.
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Parmesan Crisps: Enjoy crunchy, cheesy bites alongside your soup for an extra touch of indulgence; they add delightful texture and flavor.
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Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with herbed cheese, these bites are fantastic finger foods that bring a delightful richness to your meal while remaining light and fresh.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, consider a light lemon sorbet. Its bright citrusy flavor offers a refreshing palate cleanser after the comforting warmth of the White Lasagna Soup.
Expert Tips for White Lasagna Soup
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Choose Quality Sausage: Select a high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor; don’t skip browning it well to enhance the taste of your White Lasagna Soup.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh garlic and spinach for maximum flavor. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant your soup will be!
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Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Keep an eye on the broken lasagna noodles as they cook; they can quickly become mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Adjust for Creaminess: Add the heavy cream gradually to achieve your desired creaminess level; taste as you go for the perfect balance in your White Lasagna Soup.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap ingredients; just ensure seasoning levels are adjusted accordingly to maintain the overall flavor profile of the soup.
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Simmer for Flavor: Let the soup simmer a few extra minutes after adding cheese—this helps meld the rich flavors beautifully, truly bringing your dish to life!
White Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! For vegetables, look for vibrant colors and firmness. Your onions should be dry and slightly papery, while garlic should be tight and plump. Avoid any cloves with dark spots or sprouting. Fresh spinach should be bright green and crispy, so steer clear of wilted or yellowing leaves. And for sauces, checking expiration dates is a must!
How should I store leftover White Lasagna Soup?
You can feel confident storing your leftover White Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. After allowing it to cool completely, seal it up tightly to lock in all that creamy goodness and flavor!
Can I freeze White Lasagna Soup? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! Ladle the cooled soup into individual airtight containers. It’s best to leave some space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen. This dish keeps well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
No need to worry! If your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually while heating on low, allowing you to adjust until it’s just how you want it!
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply swap the Italian sausage for a meatless alternative, like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it entirely plant-based. Dairy-free? Try using nut-based cheeses and a non-dairy cream substitute for rich, creamy comfort!
Can I reheat the soup more than once?
It’s best to reheat only once to maintain safety and quality. If you have leftover soup after serving, store it and reheat only the portion you’ll eat right away. Heat thoroughly on the stove over low heat, stirring gently to ensure even warming.
Heavenly White Lasagna Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken broth and add the white beans. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Cream and Greens: Add the heavy cream, chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add Noodles: Gently toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Cook until tender, around 10 minutes.
- Return the Sausage: Bring the browned sausage back into the pot, and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls while hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.