This comforting creamy white lasagna soup is filled with fresh veggies, tender noodles, and a rich, cheesy broth. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how easy this soup is to make. Just throw everything together and let it simmer. Perfect for cozy nights when you want something tasty without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing. If you’re out, you can use vegetable or canola oil. They have a similar smoke point and flavor.
Onion: I prefer using a small yellow onion because it adds sweetness when cooked. You could use shallots or even a leek if that’s what you have on hand!
Mushrooms: I like using cremini or button mushrooms for a lovely earthiness. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, try adding diced bell peppers or even chopped carrots for a sweet touch.
Zucchini: This veggie works beautifully, but yellow squash or chopped kale also make great substitutes in this soup.
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavors, but vegetable broth is a wonderful alternative for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth adds a nice touch if you have it.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, use half-and-half or even milk. If you want a dairy-free version, coconut milk or a cashew cream could provide creaminess!
How Do I Get the Perfect Sauté for My Vegetables?
Getting the sauté right is crucial for building flavor in this soup. Follow these steps for success:
- Heat your oil on medium heat — don’t rush it! If it’s too hot, you’ll burn the garlic and onions.
- Add diced onions first. Cook until translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, toss in garlic and mushrooms. Sauté until mushrooms are browned and release moisture, around 5 minutes. This step really enhances the flavor!
- Finally, add your other veggies like zucchini and cook them for an additional 2 minutes. They should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.
With this technique, you’ll lay a fantastic flavor foundation for your creamy soup!
How to Make Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces cheese-filled ravioli or lasagna noodles broken into pieces
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (for topping)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped, for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
What’s the Time Estimate?
This delicious Creamy White Lasagna Soup will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook these together for around 5 minutes until the mushrooms start to brown and release their moisture.
2. Add More Veggies:
Now it’s time to incorporate some more veggies! Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook for an extra 2 minutes. This keeps the zucchini tender yet still a little crisp.
3. Create the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil—this is where all the flavors start to come together!
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, add your ravioli or broken pieces of lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!
5. Add the Spinach and Cream:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, letting them wilt for about 1-2 minutes. Then, lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Be careful not to let it boil after adding the cream, as we want it to stay smooth and creamy.
6. Serve Your Delightful Soup:
Take a ladle and scoop the rich soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese for added creaminess. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary, and if you like, some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this creamy white lasagna soup! It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying a quiet night in with a cozy blanket. Yum!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests cheese-filled ravioli or broken lasagna noodles, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut milk or a cashew cream, which will still give the soup a creamy texture without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, you can add a bit of broth or water to loosen it up before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is quite versatile. Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or kale. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times so everything remains tender yet crisp.
