As the chilly air sets in, I find myself wandering back to my favorite comforting dishes, and White Lasagna Soup tops that list. It’s like taking a bite out of a cozy blanket on a cold night—a warm embrace of creamy broth, hearty sausage, and gooey cheese all in one bowl. This delightful recipe not only captures the traditional flavors of lasagna but also offers a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this soup is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Curious about how to craft this creamy comfort in your own home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Is White Lasagna Soup So Irresistible?
Warm, Comforting Delight: This creamy soup brings the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna to your bowl, offering pure comfort with every spoonful.
Easy Weeknight Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect choice for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
Customizable Base: With various ingredient swaps, you can tailor it to suit your taste, much like the versatile Chorizo Pumpkin Soup.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will adore the hearty mix of rich cheeses and savory sausage.
Nutritional Boost: Packed with spinach and white beans, it’s a satisfying meal that still feels light and wholesome, just like a bowl of Succulent Cod White with its nutrient-rich ingredients.
White Lasagna Soup Ingredients
• Creamy, comforting goodness starts here!
For the Soup Base
- Italian Sausage – Adds savory flavor and protein; try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Onion – Provides aromatic base and sweetness; no substitutions necessary.
- Garlic – Infuses the soup with bold flavor; use fresh garlic for the best results.
- Chicken Broth – Serves as the soup’s base; low-sodium is a healthier choice.
- White Beans – Adds creaminess and fiber; can substitute with cannellini or navy beans.
For the Creamy Mix
- Heavy Cream – Contributes richness and creaminess; half-and-half works as a lighter alternative.
- Spinach – Adds nutritional value and color; substitute with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
- Ricotta Cheese – Provides a creamy base; cream cheese or cottage cheese can also be used.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture; provolone or gouda make great substitutes.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth; grated cheese melts better for this dish.
For the Noodle Component
- Lasagna Noodles – Broken pieces form the heart of the soup; gluten-free pasta can also be used.
For Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the best flavor experience.
This White Lasagna Soup is set to tantalize your taste buds with its rich and creamy character—perfect for warming up those chilly evenings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat the stovetop over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Using a wooden spoon, break the sausage apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it’s no longer pink. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic. This step builds the savory foundation of our White Lasagna Soup, helping all the flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 3: Mix in the Broth and Beans
Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained white beans into the pot. Raise the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine before adding the creamy components.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Greens
Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese into the simmering pot. Keep the heat on low and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This transforms your soup into a creamy, inviting concoction characteristic of a classic White Lasagna Soup, with cheese melting beautifully.
Step 5: Stir in the Noodles
Now, add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot, stirring gently to combine. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally, ensuring the noodles don’t stick to the bottom of the pot, allowing for a rich, melding of flavors.
Step 6: Combine and Season
Return the cooked sausage to the pot, mixing it with the creamy soup. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through. Finally, taste the White Lasagna Soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference, enhancing the comforting flavors just right.
Step 7: Serve with Love
Ladle the hot White Lasagna Soup into bowls, and for an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately, enjoying this warm, hearty dish that fills your home with delicious aromas and brings comfort in every spoonful.
White Lasagna Soup: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this soup your own with these delightful twists and swaps!
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Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add a colorful mix of veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. It’s still wonderfully hearty and comforting!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut milk to keep it creamy while being dairy-free. The coconut flavor adds a unique twist.
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Flavor Boost: Try adding Italian herbs like oregano and basil to enhance the flavors. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring a delightful heat that warms you from the inside out!
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Protein Alternatives: Substitute sausage with grilled chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a yummy vegetarian source. Each choice brings its own flavor to this cozy dish.
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Pasta Variations: Feel free to use any pasta type you love! Gluten-free lasagna noodles or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option can work beautifully.
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Cheese Swap: Switch out mozzarella for gouda or fontina for a smoke-tinged taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth. Experimenting with cheese can elevate your soup’s richness.
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Homemade Broth: Use homemade chicken broth for a deeper flavor experience. Pair it with this soup for a comforting combo that you’ll want to savor every spoonful of. It reminds me of the warmth found in a rich Tuscan Ravioli Soup.
These variations allow you to enjoy White Lasagna Soup in multiple ways while keeping comfort at the core. Whichever route you take, I’m sure it will turn out just fantastic!
Expert Tips for White Lasagna Soup
- Thickening Option: Reduce broth slightly: For a creamier soup, decrease the chicken broth to achieve the desired thickness without losing flavor.
- Noodle Care: Stir regularly: To prevent the lasagna noodles from sticking to the pot’s bottom, give it a gentle stir every few minutes during cooking.
- Savorier Seasoning: Taste before serving: Always sample the soup before ladling it into bowls; this allows you to adjust salt and pepper to enhance the rich flavor of your White Lasagna Soup.
- Creamy Consistency: Add cream gradually: Incorporate the heavy cream slowly while stirring to ensure it blends well, creating that deliciously velvety texture.
- Vegetable Sneak-In: Boost nutrition: Sneak in extra vegetables like diced zucchini or bell peppers without compromising the traditional flavors for a healthful twist!
How to Store and Freeze White Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the White Lasagna Soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy texture. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much upon reheating.
Make-Ahead Tip: Feel free to prepare the soup a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious to serve!
What to Serve with Creamy White Lasagna Soup?
The comforting warmth of this creamy soup invites a symphony of delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: A must-have with any soup, the crunchy, buttery flavors of garlic bread perfectly balance the creaminess.
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Italian Salad: Crisp greens and zesty vinaigrette complement the rich soup. Toss in some olives, tomatoes, and red onions for a fresh burst.
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Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this light appetizer contrasts beautifully with the hearty soup, awakening your taste buds.
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Cheesy Garlic Knots: These fluffy, buttery bites are the ultimate dipping delight, enhancing every spoonful of your white lasagna soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add vibrant colors and healthy crunch, rounding out a comforting, satisfying meal.
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Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like Chianti provides just the right acidity to balance the creaminess of the soup while enhancing its Italian flavors.
These pairings will create a harmonious dining experience, making your White Lasagna Soup a true comfort food feast!
Make Ahead Options
These creamy White Lasagna Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the soup base—cooking the sausage, sautéing the onions and garlic, and adding the broth with white beans—up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring the flavors continue to develop. You can also chop the spinach and measure out the cheeses beforehand. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the base on the stove and stir in the cream, noodles, and spinach, cooking until everything is warmed through. This way, you’ll have all the comforting flavors of White Lasagna Soup ready for busy weeknights with minimal effort!
White Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of sausage should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using Italian sausage for its rich and savory flavor, which really complements the other ingredients. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken or turkey sausage works perfectly too, giving you that balanced taste without the heaviness.
How long can I store White Lasagna Soup in the fridge?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing, and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for an even heat distribution.
Can I freeze White Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze the White Lasagna Soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Very easily fixable! If your soup ends up thicker than desired, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating to reach your preferred consistency. Stir well to incorporate, and allow it to warm through gently on low heat, ensuring that nothing burns or sticks to the pot.
Are there any ingredient substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, you can simply omit the sausage and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Additionally, if you have lactose intolerance, feel free to substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a lactose-free cream alternative to still enjoy that delicious, creamy richness without the discomfort.
How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
For an extra savory kick, I often suggest tasting your soup before serving and adjusting the seasoning accordingly. A spoonful of grated Parmesan stirred in at the end can elevate the flavors even more. You can also consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for a fresh touch!
Creamy White Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat the stovetop over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break the sausage apart as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained white beans. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles into the pot, cooking for about 10 minutes or until tender. Stir occasionally.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with more parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
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