Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you’re like me, nothing beats the comfort and warmth of a creamy, cheesy soup, especially when it’s combined with the heartiness of lasagna. Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is the ultimate fusion of two favorite dishes: the rich, comforting flavors of lasagna and the soul-warming warmth of soup. Imagine everything you love about lasagna the savory sausage, the tender noodles, the gooey cheese served in a creamy, spoonable bowl. This twist on traditional lasagna will undoubtedly become your go-to comfort food for chilly days, busy weeknights, and family gatherings.

Lasagna has always been a crowd-pleaser in my family. But on busy nights, sometimes the thought of layering all the noodles, cheese, and sauce can feel daunting. That’s when I started making lasagna in a bowl instead! This creamy Alfredo lasagna soup is everything you love about the classic lasagna, with much less fuss and a whole lot more comfort.

Whether you’re serving it to your family on a cozy weeknight, taking it to a potluck, or simply craving a bowl of rich, cheesy goodness, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a blanket of comfort with each spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

To make this Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 lb ground sausage (Italian sausage, sweet or spicy, will work great here)
• 1 small onion, chopped (adds a subtle sweetness to the soup)
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional, but they add a lovely depth of flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic base)
• 4 cups baby spinach (or kale for a heartier option)
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth (you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 5 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (breaking them up mimics the texture of the traditional lasagna layers)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (a key Italian herb)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (a perfect complement to the oregano)
• For the Alfredo Sauce:
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour (to make the roux for the Alfredo base)
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% milk works best for a creamy texture)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (freshly grated will give the best texture and flavor)

Preparation:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground sausage to the pot and cook it, breaking it up into small pieces as it browns. You want it to get nice and crispy around the edges for the best flavor. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked through and browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. Be sure to leave any rendered fat in the pot it adds a lot of flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little bit of olive oil if needed, and toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. The aroma at this stage will have you hooked!

Step 3: Add the Spinach and Broth

Now that your vegetables are softened and flavorful, add in the fresh baby spinach. Stir the spinach into the mixture, and cook for just a few minutes until it wilts down. Once the spinach is wilted, pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add the Lasagna Noodles and Seasoning

Next, break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces about 2-inch pieces work best. Add the noodles to the simmering broth, along with the dried oregano and basil. Let the soup cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are al dente. The lasagna noodles will absorb some of the broth, becoming soft and adding to the creamy texture of the soup.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

While the soup simmers, it’s time to make the Alfredo sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk it together with the butter. Continue to cook the flour for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.

Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese melts completely into the sauce. This creates the creamy, cheesy base for your soup.

Variations:

One of the best things about Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is that it’s incredibly customizable. Here are a few variations and substitutions that you can make to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist on this soup, you can easily leave out the sausage and substitute it with more vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative. Try adding zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, or even eggplant to enhance the vegetable base. You could also add extra mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor.

• Gluten-Free Version: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles. Be sure to check the broth and any other packaged ingredients for gluten as well. Gluten-free noodles might need a little extra attention, so make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package carefully to avoid overcooking.

• Dairy-Free Version: To make this soup dairy-free, swap out the butter for a non-dairy alternative like coconut oil or olive oil. Use a dairy-free milk like almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast is a great option to add that cheesy, umami flavor without the dairy.

• Spicy Alfredo Lasagna Soup: If you enjoy a little heat in your meals, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes when cooking the vegetables. The heat will balance out the richness of the creamy Alfredo sauce, adding an exciting kick to every bite.

Cooking Notes:

• Don’t Rush the Browning Process: When browning the sausage, let it cook long enough to become crispy around the edges. This adds a depth of flavor to the soup that makes it rich and savory.
• Broth Options: If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can use beef broth or vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth. Beef broth will add a deeper, heartier flavor that complements the sausage beautifully.
• Cooking the Noodles: Lasagna noodles are sturdy, but they can absorb a lot of liquid during cooking. Make sure the soup has plenty of liquid while the noodles are cooking, and feel free to add a bit more broth if the soup thickens too much before the noodles are done.
• Cheese for the Alfredo Sauce: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal for this Alfredo sauce because it melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce, so if possible, grate the cheese yourself.

Serving Suggestions:

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a hearty dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Garlic Bread: What better way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy soup than with some crispy garlic bread? The buttery, garlicky bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all of that rich, flavorful broth.

• Side Salad: A fresh, tangy side salad can help balance out the richness of the soup. Consider a simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the salad will complement the creamy soup beautifully.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or even sweet potatoes are perfect accompaniments to this soup. The caramelized edges of roasted vegetables provide a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the soup and add a healthy component to the meal.

• Toppings for Extra Flavor: For a finishing touch, consider sprinkling some extra Parmesan cheese on top of your soup just before serving. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you love a little heat, a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.

Tips:

• Make-Ahead: This soup can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together overnight, which makes it even more delicious when reheated. If you plan to make it in advance, you can cook the soup, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.
• Freezing: If you want to make a large batch and freeze it for later, you can do so! Just make sure to let the soup cool completely before freezing it. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove. You may need to add some additional broth to restore the creamy texture, as soups can thicken after freezing.
• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding more broth if necessary to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
• Noodle Tips: Lasagna noodles are known for absorbing liquid, so if you’re making this soup with leftovers, you might find that the noodles have absorbed much of the liquid. Simply add a little more broth when reheating to restore the soup’s creamy texture.

Nutritional Information:

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup:

• Calories: 390 per serving (this is based on 6 servings)
• Protein: 25g per serving
• Sodium: 800mg per serving

Please note that nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so be sure to adjust for any substitutions (such as using lean sausage or dairy-free alternatives).

Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

FAQs:

Can I make this soup without sausage?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of sausage, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, ground beef, or even a plant-based sausage. You can also opt for more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a vegetarian version.

Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes, gluten-free noodles can be used to make this soup gluten-free. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of gluten-free noodles you use, as they can vary in texture and cooking time.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe or avoid heavy cream, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk. However, using milk instead of cream will result in a slightly thinner texture, so keep that in mind.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a bit of chicken broth when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

Conclusion:

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that is sure to win over your family and friends. With its creamy Alfredo base, hearty sausage, and tender lasagna noodles, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a much simpler, soup form. The spinach and mushrooms add a touch of freshness and depth, while the cheese brings everything together in a beautifully rich, savory bowl of comfort.

Whether you’re serving this on a chilly night or at a family dinner, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. With its customizable variations, it’s easy to make this recipe your own, no matter your dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a dish that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights when you still want to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, cheesy, savory goodness that’ll leave you craving more. Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments and let us know how you made this soup your own. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out our other delicious comfort food recipes on the site.

Happy cooking!

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