Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a comforting bowl of coziness that brings together all the flavors of traditional lasagna, but with a creamy, soup-like twist. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you want a hearty meal without the fuss of layering! The savory Italian sausage, tangy tomatoes, tender lasagna noodles, and indulgent cheeses create a soul-warming dish that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage – Opt for mild or spicy depending on your preference, as it will set the flavor base for the soup.
- 1 onion, chopped – Adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor to balance the savory ingredients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic elevates the aroma and complements the sausage beautifully.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The base liquid that keeps the soup light while enhancing its savory profile.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – Provides a touch of acidity to cut through the richness of the cheeses.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – Adds a smooth texture and robust tomato flavor.
- 2 cups uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – The star of the show! Breaking them into bite-sized pieces ensures easy serving.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy consistency that’s irresistible.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into the soup, adding a gooey, cheesy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Offers a salty, nutty note that rounds out the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning and balance.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the sausage is browned and cooked through. This should take about 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and the broken lasagna noodles. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Components Once the noodles are tender, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Season and Serve Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the comfort and decadence of lasagna in every spoonful!
Helpful Tips
- Breaking the Noodles: For easy and even cooking, break the lasagna noodles into small pieces before adding them to the soup.
- Add Greens: To boost the nutrition, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the consistency.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
A: Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne, bowtie, or rotini would work well in this soup.
Q: How can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for added texture.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that milk will result in a thinner soup. For a thicker consistency, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) at the end.
Q: Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
A: Definitely! You can prepare the soup base without adding the noodles, cream, and cheeses, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat, add the noodles, and follow the remaining steps.
Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead?
A: Yes, turkey sausage is a great leaner option and still adds plenty of flavor.
20 Culinary Secrets for the Perfect Alfredo Lasagna Soup
- Brown the Sausage Well: Ensure the sausage gets a good sear to build up deep, rich flavors.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will offer a more potent aroma and taste.
- Add the Cream Slowly: Pour in the cream gradually to prevent curdling.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles while simmering to avoid a mushy texture.
- Balance the Acidity: If the soup is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar.
- Go for Full-Fat Dairy: Full-fat cheeses and cream will create a creamier, more indulgent soup.
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: For a smoky depth, opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- Season in Layers: Season the sausage, broth, and soup base separately to build a more complex flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: A gentle simmer will meld the flavors together perfectly.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley at the end can brighten up the soup.
- Test the Noodles: Taste the noodles for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
- Keep Stirring: Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Warm the Cream First: Bringing the cream to room temperature before adding can prevent it from curdling.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Higher quality Parmesan and mozzarella will make a noticeable difference.
- Garnish for Presentation: Top with extra cheese, a drizzle of cream, or fresh herbs for a polished look.
- Crusty Bread on the Side: Serve with crusty garlic bread for the perfect accompaniment.
- Use Homemade Broth: If possible, homemade chicken broth will enhance the overall flavor.
- Add Mushrooms: For a richer taste, sauté some mushrooms along with the sausage.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to swap ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to personalize the soup!
