Introduction
Get ready to warm your soul with a comforting bowl of White Lasagna Soup! This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the heartiness of a soup, perfect for chilly evenings. Picture indulging in tender noodles soaked in savory broth, surrounded by seasoned sausage, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta. It’s the hearty meal that satisfies cravings without the fuss of layering classic lasagna. Let’s dive into this cozy recipe that promises to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage until it’s beautifully browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a lighter soup.
- Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, creating a lovely aroma in your kitchen.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Give it a good stir to combine every delicious flavor.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting those flavors meld together beautifully.
- Carefully add the broken lasagna noodles and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the noodles become tender and inviting.
- Gently stir in the fresh spinach, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until it becomes just wilted and maintains its vibrant color.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until creamy and smooth.
- Serve the soup in bowls, adding a generous dollop of the creamy cheese mixture on top. Finish it off by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and fresh basil for that perfect garnish.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a kick of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking this White Lasagna Soup is straightforward, but here are a couple of techniques that will help enhance the flavors:
- Sautéing: Taking the time to sauté the onion and garlic allows them to release their natural sweetness, creating a deeper flavor base.
- Simmering: Simmering the soup not only cooks the noodles perfectly but also allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
FAQ
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to store the cheese mixture separately and add it just before serving to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze White Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The texture of the noodles may change slightly, but the flavors remain delicious!
Conclusion
White Lasagna Soup is a delightful way to satisfy your pasta cravings while keeping things cozy and uncomplicated. It’s loaded with flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. With a little bit of prep and love, you can create a fragrant, heartwarming dish that will surely bring smiles to your table. So, grab your favorite bowl and enjoy every comforting bite!