Oh, my friends, do I have a treat for you! There’s something about a creamy soup that just wraps you up in a cozy hug, don’t you think? Today, I want to share one of my absolute favorites: **Creamy White Lasagna Soup**. I came up with this gem on a chilly evening when I was craving lasagna but didn’t want to deal with the layers and baking dish. So, I thought, why not turn it into a soup? Spoiler alert: it was a hit! Each spoonful is a delicious mix of flavors that just makes you feel at home.
This soup holds a special place in my heart. The first time I made it, I was hosting a small dinner for some friends who had just moved back to town. Between shared stories and laughter, we slurped up this delicious soup, and I could see the delight on everyone’s faces! Here we are—a crowd revived, warmed by the creamy broth and gooey cheese—we’ve created a new tradition that night! So grab your pot and let’s get cooking!
What’s in Creamy White Lasagna Soup?
Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful soup:
Olive Oil: A tablespoon of this liquid gold gets things started nicely by infusing flavor into your base. It’s perfect for sautéing those sweet onions!
Onion: One diced onion adds a beautiful sweetness and depth to the soup. I always find that onions and a little olive oil are a match made in heaven!
Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic add a fragrant kick. I love how such a small amount can make such a big difference!
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About one pound of this lean protein, cut into bite-sized pieces, helps make this soup hearty and filling.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings, but don’t underestimate their power to elevate the dish!
Chicken Broth: Four cups of this golden liquid is the heart and soul of the soup. I personally love using low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Lasagna Noodles: Eight ounces, broken into pieces—because, let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be lasagna soup without them! Opt for regular noodles or whole wheat for a healthier spin.
Fresh Spinach: Two cups of fresh spinach not only adds nutrition but also a vibrant green touch. I love how it wilts beautifully when added to the hot soup!
Heavy Cream: One cup of heavy cream transforms this soup into a luscious experience that’s hard to resist. Okay, I confess—I usually add a dash more because #TreatYourself!
Ricotta Cheese: One cup brings that creamy, dreamy flavor. It’s like a cloud of cheese floating in your bowl!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: You can’t have lasagna without mozzarella! One cup adds that gooey, melty goodness we all adore.
Dried Thyme: Just one teaspoon (plus some for garnish) gives the soup an earthy, robust flavor that seals the deal.
Mushrooms: One cup of sliced mushrooms cooked gently to bring a savory earthiness. I always recommend using fresh ones—they make such a difference!
Fresh Parsley: I like to keep it fresh for garnish. It adds a pop of color and brightens up the dish!
Is Creamy White Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health. This Creamy White Lasagna Soup is packed with good stuff!
Chicken: Being a lean protein source, it’s great for muscle repair and growth.
Spinach: This leafy green is a powerhouse of vitamins A and K, helping keep your bones healthy and your vision sharp. Go, spinach, go!
Mushrooms: They’re low in calories and high in nutrients like B vitamins, which help your body convert food into energy. Plus, they add wonderful flavor!
On the flip side, this soup does include heavy cream and cheeses, so if you’re watching your saturated fat intake or trying to keep calories in check, maybe consider using lighter dairy options. You could swap out heavy cream with something like half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative!
Ingredients List
This comforting soup serves about 6 people and here’s what you need:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Creamy White Lasagna Soup?
Ready to dive into making this divine soup? Here’s how:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s all fragrant and lovely.
3. Now stir in the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until those chicken cubes are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which is about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and dried thyme. Let the soup simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and create that delicious richness we crave.
6. For an extra flavor boost, sauté the sliced mushrooms in a separate pan over medium heat until they’re tender, about 5 minutes. Stir those tasty mushrooms right into the soup.
7. Finally, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme and parsley.
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Comfort!
Ah, my favorite part—serving this scrumptious soup! This Creamy White Lasagna Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, or you could whip up a fresh side salad to add some crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not explore other veggie add-ins? I’ve had great luck with peas or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
I hope you find as much joy in making and eating this soup as I have! It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Give it a try, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Dig in and enjoy the warmth and creaminess of this delightful dish! Happy cooking!
