Introduction

White lasagna soup is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, offering a creamy and savory experience in a comforting soup form. This hearty dish combines layers of flavor, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. The use of rich cheeses, tender noodles, and wholesome ingredients creates a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Ground turkey or sausage: 1 pound
– Chicken broth: 4 cups
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Lasagna noodles: 8 ounces, broken into pieces
– Spinach: 2 cups, fresh
– Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
– Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
– Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
– Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
– Salt and pepper: to taste

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken. You can do this by boiling it in a pot of water, seasoned with salt and pepper, until fully cooked. Once done, shred the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the onions become translucent.

Add the Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth to the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.

Add the Cream and Seasonings

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to taste.

Add the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta directly to the soup. Stir and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Incorporate the Spinach

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt for a few minutes.

Add the Cheese

Mix in the ricotta cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. For a creamier texture, you can add more cream or cheese as desired.

Final Adjustments

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave.

Pasta Options

Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Small shapes like shells or elbows work well in this recipe.

Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture.

Make Ahead

This soup can be made ahead of time. However, if doing so, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a cooking technique where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. For this dish, sautéing the aromatics like onion and garlic enhances their flavors, developing a rich base for the soup.

Simmering

Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring that the ingredients remain tender, which is essential in a soup.

Layering

Layering refers to the technique of adding ingredients in stages to build flavor and texture. In this recipe, layering the ingredients, such as the noodles and cheese, helps to achieve a balanced and harmonious final dish.

Stirring

Stirring is essential for preventing ingredients from sticking and ensuring even cooking. When making the soup, regular stirring helps to combine the ingredients properly and maintain a consistent texture.

Garnishing

Garnishing involves adding final touches to enhance the visual appeal and flavor of a dish. Adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top of the soup before serving provides a flavorful contrast and an attractive presentation.

FAQ

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute traditional lasagna noodles with other types such as egg noodles or gluten-free varieties as per your preference.

How can I make this soup creamier?

To make the soup creamier, you can add more cream or a creamy cheese such as ricotta or mascarpone when serving.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance, but it is best to store the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.

What can I use to thicken the soup?

You can use cornstarch mixed with water or a roux made from flour and butter to thicken the soup according to your desired consistency.

Is it possible to freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.

Conclusion

The White Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering a creamy and flavorful experience that is both comforting and unique. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners, allowing you to enjoy all the beloved flavors of lasagna in a convenient, one-pot meal. The rich blend of cheeses, vegetables, and tender pasta makes it a satisfying dish that your family will love.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable White Lasagna

Consider making a vegetable white lasagna by layering roasted vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach with a creamy white sauce and lasagna noodles.

Chicken Alfredo Soup

For a creamy alternative, try a chicken alfredo soup that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich alfredo sauce for a comforting meal.

Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff Soup

Create a beef and mushroom stroganoff soup that features tender beef pieces, mushrooms, and egg noodles in a creamy sauce, perfect for cold evenings.

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

A cheesy broccoli and rice casserole can be another comforting option, combining rice, broccoli, and a cheesy sauce for a delightful side dish or main course.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can complement the flavors of white lasagna soup, offering a delightful baked pasta option filled with creamy cheese and spinach.

Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

An Italian sausage and kale soup can provide a hearty and flavorful meal, featuring sausage, greens, and beans in a robust broth.

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Vegetables

As a side, parmesan garlic roasted vegetables can enhance any main dish, providing a deliciously simple complement to the flavors of white lasagna soup.

Caprese Salad

A fresh caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a light and refreshing side that pairs well with the richness of the soup.