This Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, combining the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce with the comforting essence of soup. It’s a hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this recipe because it combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of lasagna, all in a comforting soup form. It’s quick to prepare, packed with delicious ingredients, and can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze!
Introduction
Lasagna is a beloved dish that many of us associate with family gatherings and hearty dinners. However, sometimes you want the comfort of lasagna without the fuss of layering pasta and baking it in the oven. Enter Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup! This innovative recipe captures the essence of lasagna while offering the simplicity and warmth of a soup. With its creamy texture, savory sausage, and fresh spinach, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious soup!
Ingredients:
- 0.5 pounds of ground sausage
- 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms
- 1 small chopped onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 4 cups of fresh spinach
- 5 cups of chicken broth (with a pinch of salt)
- 5 pieces of broken lasagna noodles
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon of dried marjoram
- ⅓ cup of butter
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the veggies and sausage
In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it is browned. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion, sautéing for about 5 to 6 minutes on medium-low heat until the vegetables are tender.
Step 2: Incorporate garlic and spinach
Stir in the minced garlic and fresh spinach, cooking for an additional minute until the spinach has wilted.
Step 3: Simmer the broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add noodles and herbs
Add the broken lasagna noodles, dried oregano, and marjoram to the broth. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo mix
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until it begins to bubble. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Cooking Note:
Once the Alfredo sauce is ready, whisk it into the soup until fully combined. This will give the soup its signature creamy texture and rich flavor.
Suggestions for Presentation:
Serve the Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup in deep bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil. A slice of crusty bread on the side makes for the perfect accompaniment!
Tips:
- For a leaner option, substitute the ground pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables; add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and a gluten-free flour blend.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider simmering in a splash of white wine.
Preparation Time:
- Time to prepare: 10 minutes
- Time to cook: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the best of lasagna and soup into one easy-to-make recipe. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress!
FAQs:
1. How far in advance can I prepare this soup?
You can prepare the soup base in advance, but it’s best to leave out the noodles and Alfredo sauce until you’re ready to serve. The soup base will keep for up to two days in the fridge.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the noodles and Alfredo sauce. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then add the noodles and sauce according to the package directions.
3. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or homemade broth for a vegetarian option.
4. Can I use fresh lasagna noodles?
Yes, if you have fresh lasagna noodles, you can break them into pieces and add them to the soup. Just reduce the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
For some heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the sausage and vegetables. Adjust the amount to your spice preference!
