White Lasagna Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

White Lasagna Soup: Forget layering noodles and waiting for hours! Imagine all the comforting, cheesy goodness of a classic white lasagna, but in a warm, inviting soup that’s ready in a fraction of the time. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, a culinary shortcut to pure, unadulterated comfort food.

Lasagna, in its traditional form, boasts a rich history rooted in Italian culinary tradition, evolving from simple layered pasta dishes to the complex and beloved casserole we know today. While the classic red sauce version is iconic, the white lasagna, or lasagna bianca, offers a creamy, decadent alternative that’s equally satisfying. But let’s be honest, sometimes we crave that lasagna flavor without the fuss. That’s where this White Lasagna Soup comes in!

People adore this dish for its incredible flavor profile. The creamy broth, infused with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate. The addition of Italian sausage and tender pasta shells elevates it from a simple soup to a hearty and fulfilling meal. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re simply craving a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience lasagna in a whole new, deliciously slurpable way!

Ingredients:

• For the Soup Base:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, or a mix), casings removed
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Lasagna Noodles:
• 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular), broken into bite-sized pieces
• For the Cheese Mixture:
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes

Preparing the Soup Base:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: First, grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add Garlic and Sausage: Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Now, add the Italian sausage (removed from its casings) to the pot. Use a spoon or spatula to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Season the Sausage: Stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) into the sausage mixture. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors. This step really enhances the overall taste of the soup.
4. Add Broth and Noodles: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits add a ton of flavor! Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, they’ll need a bit longer to cook than oven-ready ones.
5. Simmer Until Noodles are Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lasagna noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Check the noodles for doneness – they should be soft but not mushy.
6. Stir in Cream and Parmesan: Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
7. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and Parmesan cheese are already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture:

1. Combine the Ingredients: While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheese mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Well: Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. This cheese mixture will add a delicious richness and texture to the soup.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Spoon Cheese Mixture into Soup: Once the soup is ready, gently drop spoonfuls of the cheese mixture into the soup. You can use a spoon or a small cookie scoop to do this. The cheese mixture will cook slightly in the hot soup, creating little pockets of cheesy goodness.
2. Simmer Briefly: Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese mixture to heat through. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese mixture can become rubbery.
3. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the White Lasagna Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, extra Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the Italian sausage and add 1 cup of chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, along with the onions. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage and add more red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup base.
• Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy soup, add 2-4 ounces of cream cheese to the cheese mixture. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the mixture.
• Different Noodles: If you don’t have lasagna noodles, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the soup base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and add the noodles and cheese mixture.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to thin it out. It’s best to add the cheese mixture after thawing and reheating for the best texture.
• Broccoli Addition: Add 1-2 cups of chopped broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of simmering for added nutrients and texture.
• Spinach Boost: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking. The spinach will wilt quickly and add a boost of vitamins.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) along with the garlic for a burst of intense flavor.
• Wine Enhancement: Deglaze the pot with 1/4 cup of dry white wine after cooking the sausage. Let the wine reduce slightly before adding the chicken broth. This adds depth and complexity to the soup.

Serving Suggestions:

This White Lasagna Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is another great option for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a comforting and satisfying meal, pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Fat: 30-40g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
• Sodium: 800-1000mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 5-10g
• Protein: 20-25g

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful White Lasagna Soup! It’s a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day and a fun twist on a classic Italian dish.

Conclusion:

This White Lasagna Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, a culinary experience that brings all the best parts of lasagna to your table in a fraction of the time. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves Italian flavors and appreciates a quick, satisfying meal. The creamy broth, the savory sausage, the tender noodles, and the rich blend of cheeses all come together in perfect harmony. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have you craving it again and again.

But what truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage – Italian sweet, spicy, or even a plant-based alternative would work beautifully. You can also adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. If you’re a cheese lover like me, don’t be shy about adding an extra handful of mozzarella or Parmesan! For a richer flavor, try using a combination of ricotta and mascarpone cheese.

Serving suggestions? Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love to serve this soup with a crusty loaf of Italian bread for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup perfectly. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try topping it with some crispy fried sage leaves for a touch of elegance.

This White Lasagna Soup is also incredibly adaptable to dietary needs. To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute them with zucchini noodles for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can even use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it completely vegetarian.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a comforting dish to enjoy on a chilly day. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken or vegetables. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I know that once you taste it, you’ll be hooked. It’s a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. And most importantly, it’s a recipe that’s meant to be shared with loved ones.

So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I can’t wait to hear about your experience with this White Lasagna Soup! Please, come back and share your thoughts, variations, and photos in the comments below. Let me know what you loved about it, what you changed, and how you made it your own. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!