White Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you’re craving the rich, comforting flavors of Italian lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, you absolutely need to try this White Lasagna Soup. This delightful dish takes all the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic white lasagna and transforms it into a luscious, one-pot soup that’s bursting with savory sausage, tender noodles, and fresh spinach. It’s the perfect way to enjoy those traditional lasagna flavors in a deliciously warm bowl, making mealtime simpler, faster, and oh-so satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This White Lasagna Soup is all about simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and a wonderful texture. Each item plays a crucial role—from the hearty Italian sausage that spices up the broth, to the creamy cheeses that give the soup its indulgent base, to fresh spinach that brightens every spoonful with a pop of color.

• Olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic to build a rich, savory foundation.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened before other ingredients join the pot.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the soup with that unmistakable fragrant warmth.
• Ground Italian sausage: The star protein that flavors the broth with herbs and a bit of spice.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs helping to round out those classic Italian flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that can be customized to your taste.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful base that keeps the soup light and savory.
• Lasagna noodles: Broken into bite-size pieces to soak up the creamy broth.
• Heavy cream: Makes the soup silky and luxurious.
• Cream cheese: Adds body and tang that balances the richness of the dish.
• Fresh spinach: Provides freshness, extra nutrients, and pretty green color.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts seamlessly into the soup, giving a gooey, cheesy texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, savory finish to every spoonful.
• Fresh basil: Used as a bright, aromatic garnish that ties all the flavors together.

How to Make White Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Cook Sausage

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it turns translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes—this step builds the flavor foundation. Next, add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, around 30 seconds, being careful not to brown it. Then add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns evenly, releasing those wonderful spices and juices that will flavor every bite of your White Lasagna Soup.

Step 2: Season and Add Broth

Once the sausage is browned through, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, and salt. Stir everything together to distribute the herbs and spices. Now, pour the chicken broth straight into the pot and bring it all to a rolling boil, ready to cook the noodles and meld the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

After the broth is boiling, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Cook them for 10 to 12 minutes or until they’re perfectly al dente—not too soft or mushy, just tender with a slight bite. This step is key because these noodles will soak up the creamy goodness to come and become the heart of your soup.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream

Reduce the heat to low, then add the cream cheese in dollops, stirring continuously until it melts completely into the broth, creating a silky, thickened base. Pour in the heavy cream and stir again until fully incorporated. This duo brings that velvety texture reminiscent of classic white lasagna sauces.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Cheeses

Toss in the chopped fresh spinach and let it wilt gently in the warm soup for 2 to 3 minutes, adding a fresh pop of green while contributing subtle earthiness. Turn off the heat and quickly stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, letting the residual warmth melt them into cheesy ribbons throughout the soup.

How to Serve White Lasagna Soup

Garnishes

To finish, a handful of torn fresh basil leaves makes all the difference. The bright herbaceous aroma lifts the rich flavors and adds an inviting burst of color atop each serving. You can also add a crack of fresh black pepper or a pinch of extra Parmesan for those who want an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup shines as a complete meal but is also great paired with a crunchy garlic bread or warm breadsticks that you can dip right into the creamy broth. A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup beautifully. Roasted veggies make a wholesome accompaniment if you want more greens on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the White Lasagna Soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top for that melty, indulgent look. For a fun twist, try topping with crispy prosciutto or even a ladle of pesto to add a pop of green and flavor complexity. You can also offer crusty bread cubes for dipping or even a side of parmesan crackers for texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover White Lasagna Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to four days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making it a fantastic option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

While freezing White Lasagna Soup is possible, it may slightly change the texture because of the cream and cheese. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. To prevent separation, reheat gently and stir often.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this soup is on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of chicken broth or water if it thickens too much, especially since the noodles absorb liquid over time. Microwave reheating also works well if you cover the bowl and stir halfway through warming.

FAQs

Can I make White Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or beans for protein. Using plant-based sausage is also a great option to keep the texture and flavor while making the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Is it possible to use gluten-free pasta in this soup?

Yes, swapping the regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free ones works perfectly. Just watch the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster and become mushy if overdone.

How spicy is White Lasagna Soup?

You control the heat! The red pepper flakes are optional, and you can easily leave them out or add more if you love a kick. The Italian sausage may also come in mild or spicy varieties depending on your preference.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the soup up to a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat it before serving. For best texture, add fresh spinach and cheese right before serving rather than during initial cooking if making far in advance.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter soup, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just remember the soup might be less rich and a bit thinner in texture, but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

White Lasagna Soup is a true game changer when you want all the cheesy, creamy comfort of lasagna without the hours in the kitchen. It’s cozy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights or a lazy weekend meal. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s become a beloved favorite. Prepare to fall in love with this soup that feels just like a warm Italian hug in a bowl!

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