Lasagna Soup with Creamy Alfredo
Lasagna soup is the perfect comfort food, combining the rich, cheesy flavors of classic lasagna in a hearty, creamy soup. This dish is packed with savory Italian sausage, al dente lasagna noodles, and a velvety Alfredo-inspired broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a hearty dish to satisfy your pasta cravings, this recipe hits all the right notes. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out your meal.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Cooking the Italian Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it into small pieces as it cooks. Allow the sausage to brown evenly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your soup from becoming greasy. The sausage adds a robust, savory base to the soup, so choosing a quality Italian sausage makes all the difference.
Simmering the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The crushed tomatoes bring a tangy, slightly sweet note to balance the richness of the sausage and cream.
Cooking the Lasagna Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup. Stir to ensure they don’t stick together. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup back to a boil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. Keep an eye on the noodles as they can easily overcook, becoming too soft and mushy. If you prefer a more rustic presentation, keep the noodle pieces larger; smaller pieces integrate more into the soup.
Creating the Creamy Alfredo Base
Lower the heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Mix continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the soup has a smooth, creamy texture. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. The combination of cheeses creates a luscious, Alfredo-inspired base that elevates this dish from a simple tomato soup to something truly indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the soup into individual bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Pair your lasagna soup with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth, or serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Soup
- Choose the Right Sausage: Opt for a high-quality Italian sausage with your preferred spice level. For an extra kick, spicy sausage works wonderfully.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir the noodles occasionally while cooking to keep them from clumping together.
- Balance the Cream: If you prefer a less creamy soup, reduce the heavy cream slightly and add a splash of milk.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the sausage while browning for extra flavor. Spinach or kale can also be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: The flavors deepen if the soup is made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While lasagna noodles give the soup its unique character, you can substitute them with other pasta shapes like bowtie, penne, or even macaroni.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this soup?
While the soup can be frozen, the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon thawing. If planning to freeze, cook and add the noodles fresh when reheating.
What can I serve alongside lasagna soup?
Crusty garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables complement this soup beautifully, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of lasagna in a bowl. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this lasagna soup with creamy Alfredo is sure to impress!