Introduction
When the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite as inviting as a bowl of warm soup. Imagine the comforting smell of Italian flavors wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful White Lasagna Soup. It’s your favorite lasagna reimagined as a cozy soup, bubbling with rich broth, creamy ricotta, and tantalizing spices that warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this dish brings a taste of Italy right to your table!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until softened and aromatic—about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, making sure it’s evenly crumbled.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld beautifully.
- Stir in the creamy ricotta cheese, diced tomatoes, fresh spinach, and the lasagna noodles. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the spinach is wilted, creating a hearty, comforting broth.
- Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Watch as they melt into the rich broth, adding to the creamy texture.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick! This soup also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for a rainy day. Just be sure to add a bit of extra broth when reheating, as the noodles will soak up some of the liquid.
Cooking Techniques
This White Lasagna Soup utilizes a few fundamental techniques that make it a breeze to prepare. Sautéing the onion and garlic enhances their natural flavors, creating a delicious base for the soup. Browning the sausage adds depth to the dish and infuses the broth with savory richness. Finally, simmering allows all the ingredients to marry together, resulting in a comforting, flavorful soup that’s sure to please.
FAQ
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage and consider adding extra veggies or even some white beans for added protein.
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair this lovely soup with a warm, crusty bread or a light salad for the perfect meal. It’s a delightful complement to the rich and creamy flavors of the soup.
Conclusion
With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, this White Lasagna Soup is destined to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. It captures all of the essence of traditional lasagna while offering the simplicity of a one-pot meal. So gather around the table, share a bowl with loved ones, and enjoy the satisfaction of a warm, homemade dish. Happy cooking!