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Nothing beats a soul-warming bowl of pasta, broth, and cheese swirling together in perfect harmony, which is exactly why the Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe has become such a beloved comfort food in my kitchen. This remarkable soup captures all the luscious, cheesy notes of traditional lasagna in a cozy, spoon-friendly format that’s effortlessly satisfying and so inviting. It’s creamy without feeling heavy, peppered with savory Italian sausage and brightened by fresh spinach and herbs, delivering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving something hearty midweek or cozying up on a chilly evening, this soup is a total crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe plays a key role, bringing simplicity and bold Italian flavors together. From the fragrant garlic and onion to the rich creams and cheeses, every element adds a layer of depth that makes the soup truly irresistible.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing onion and garlic, adding subtle richness.
- Medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a savory backbone to the soup.
- Garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and unmistakable Italian flavor.
- Ground Italian sausage: Brings hearty, spiced meatiness; turkey sausage works great for a lighter twist.
- Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base, giving the soup depth and body.
- Heavy cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and balances savory notes beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened: Creates a smooth, velvety texture that makes this soup stand out.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses authentic Mediterranean flair.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle kick to elevate the flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
- Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Classic pasta shape reimagined for soup, offering a hearty bite.
- Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a slight earthy freshness.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts into the soup creating luscious pockets of flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty edge that layers perfectly with other cheeses.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, stretchy goodness finishing the dish beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves: Bright and fragrant, perfect for a fresh herbal garnish.
How to Make Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about five minutes. This patiently builds the flavor foundation. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for just one more minute to release that irresistible garlic aroma without any bitterness.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns. Cooking it through till it’s nicely browned—about five to seven minutes—adds a savory, meaty depth that’s absolutely essential for our Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream Mixture
Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer to meld those flavors. Meanwhile, whisk the heavy cream and softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and combined. Stir this creamy mixture into the pot, stirring well so the soup becomes rich and luscious.
Step 4: Season and Add Pasta
Season your soup with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat, plus salt and pepper to taste. Toss in the broken lasagna noodles and simmer until tender—typically 10 to 12 minutes—allowing the pasta to soak up all those cozy flavors.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach and Cheeses
Stir fresh spinach into the pot until it wilts, giving the soup a pop of vibrant green and a fresh note. Gently fold in ricotta cheese and half of the grated Parmesan, adding creamy pockets that melt beautifully throughout the soup.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Basil
Remove the pot from heat, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and all the shredded mozzarella on top. Let the soup rest a few minutes so the cheese perfectly melts into that dreamy, creamy lasagna base. Finally, serve hot and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, colorful finish.
How to Serve Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the ideal finishing touch, lending a burst of herbal brightness and visual appeal. If you like, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add extra richness or a hint of spice. These simple garnishes elevate your bowl into a crowd-pleasing presentation.
Side Dishes
Serving this soup with a side of crusty garlic bread or a warm focaccia is a dream combo—the bread’s crunch contrasts perfectly with the creamy texture. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette also balances the richness, adding refreshing crispness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in rustic bread bowls to wow your guests and soak up every last drop. Or garnish with a dollop of ricotta or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for fun texture. You might even layer small bowls with a little extra mozzarella on top and briefly broil for a bubbly, cheese-crusted finish!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This creamy lasagna soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or easy lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup if you want to prep ahead. Store in freezer-safe, airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Keep in mind that pasta might absorb more liquid over time, so when reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or cream to refresh its texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly without curdling the cream. Adding a little broth or cream during reheating helps restore its luscious consistency and keeps it tasting freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this soup?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds authentic flavor, ground turkey or chicken sausage makes a lighter version without sacrificing taste. You could also use pork sausage or even plant-based alternatives for a twist.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply skip the sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. You might want to boost the flavor with extra garlic, mushrooms, or a spoonful of sun-dried tomato pesto for that savory richness.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?
Cream cheese is key to that silky texture, but you can use mascarpone or even a mild goat cheese for a unique creamy finish. For a dairy-free option, blending soaked cashews with a touch of lemon juice works surprisingly well.
How long does it take to make this Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe?
From prep to savoring your first spoonful, it takes about 45 minutes total—15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes to cook—making it a fantastic option for a comforting dinner that’s not too time-consuming.
Can I make this soup gluten free?
Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with another gluten-free pasta you love. Make sure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free as well to keep the dish safe and delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a soup that captures all the cheesy, comforting magic of lasagna but in a warm, easy-to-enjoy bowl, this Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s the perfect recipe to share with family and friends—or to treat yourself on a cozy night in. Give it a try and let the layers of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory sausage work their magic for a truly unforgettable meal.
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Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy White Lasagna Soup combines all the flavors of classic lasagna into a comforting, hearty soup. Featuring ground Italian sausage, tender broken lasagna noodles, a rich blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal that brings the indulgence of lasagna to your bowl without the fuss of layering and baking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (or turkey sausage for a lighter option)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Sausage: Add the ground sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Mix Cream Base: In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth; add to the pot and stir well to combine.
- Season Soup: Season the soup with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Cook Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and simmer until they are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Cheeses: Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted, then gently fold in the ricotta cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Top with Cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella on top.
- Let Melt: Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute turkey sausage for the Italian sausage.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten free.
- You can adjust the cream cheese and heavy cream quantities to reach your preferred soup thickness.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
