Introduction
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap your hands around and savor. This delightful White Lasagna Soup takes the rich, comforting flavors of traditional lasagna and transforms them into a creamy, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings. Just imagine diving into a steaming bowl filled with tender pasta, savory sausage, and a luscious blend of cheeses. Each spoonful is a delightful burst of flavor that will have you and your loved ones coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
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 over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it cooks through and is nicely crumbled.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring frequently until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until combined.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- While the soup simmers, prepare the cheese mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Once the noodles are tender, remove the pot from heat and carefully fold in the cheese mixture. Stir until the cheeses melt into the soup, creating a rich and comforting texture.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with the remaining mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil leaves for that extra touch of flavor and color.
Notes or Tips
If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to add in some sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of color and additional nutrition. This White Lasagna Soup can easily be made ahead of time too; just reheat it gently on the stove while stirring occasionally. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it a great option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
To ensure your soup has the best flavor, be sure to cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned. This adds depth and richness to the overall dish. Also, when mixing in the cheese, remove the pot from heat to prevent the cheese from clumping and allow for a silky smooth finish. Stirring continuously helps to incorporate all the flavors beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use a spicy sausage for an extra kick.
What if I can’t find ricotta cheese?
You can replace it with cottage cheese for a similar texture, or even cream cheese for a richer flavor!
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add extra veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a delicious meatless version.
Conclusion
This White Lasagna Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience! With each spoonful, you’re reminded of home-cooked comfort and the warmth of gathering around the table with loved ones. Perfect for chilly nights or any time you crave something delicious and heartwarming, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!