Nothing beats the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly day, especially when it’s brimming with all the rich, comforting flavors of a classic lasagna. White Lasagna Soup brings together tender noodles, creamy cheeses, seasoned chicken, and savory herbs in a luscious broth that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Unlike its baked counterpart, this dish skips the layering and baking, making it faster and more convenient without sacrificing any of that homemade goodness.
Whether you’re new to this trend or already a fan of lasagna in every form, this cozy recipe promises comfort, ease, and full-on flavor. Now, let’s dive into what exactly this soup is and why everyone’s craving it lately.
What Is White Lasagna Soup?
White Lasagna Soup is a rich and creamy version of traditional lasagna soup, but with a twist—it swaps tomato sauce for a white, cheesy broth. Think of it as a deconstructed lasagna in soup form, where every spoonful captures layers of flavor without the time-consuming prep. It’s typically made with chicken or turkey, lasagna noodles, spinach, and three kinds of cheese—mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan—all simmered in a savory, seasoned broth.
This dish isn’t just about comfort. It’s also adaptable. You can make it lighter or richer, depending on what you add. The balance of soft pasta, creamy broth, and melty cheese is unbeatable, and it’s a great way to switch things up from traditional red-sauce meals.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This isn’t your average soup. It’s soul-warming, crave-worthy, and hits all the right notes for anyone who loves Italian-inspired flavors. Here’s why it might just become your new favorite:
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Comfort food made easy – No layering, no baking, just one big pot of goodness.
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Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
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Family-friendly – Kids love the cheesy goodness and familiar taste.
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Meal prep champion – Store it in the fridge or freezer for ready-made comfort.
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Fully customizable – Switch out the meat, play with spices, or load it with veggies.
This recipe ticks all the boxes: easy, creamy, comforting, and delicious. You’ll want it on repeat all season long. Stay tuned as we walk you through the key ingredients that make this soup truly shine.
Ingredients Overview
Essential Ingredients
This soup brings together simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create a flavorful White Lasagna Soup.
Proteins
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Chicken breasts or thighs: Cooked and shredded. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time.
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Ground Italian sausage or ground turkey: These add bold flavor and heartiness. Choose leaner meats for a lighter option.
Vegetables
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Onions and garlic: The base of any good soup. They add depth.
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Spinach or kale: For color, nutrition, and a bit of freshness.
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Mushrooms or zucchini (optional): Add texture and earthy flavor.
Pasta
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Lasagna noodles: Break them into bite-sized pieces.
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Or substitute with mafalda, fusilli, or any short-cut pasta if preferred.
Cheeses
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Ricotta: Adds creaminess and that lasagna taste.
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Mozzarella: Melts beautifully into the broth.
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Parmesan: Gives a salty, nutty finish.
Liquid & Broth
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Chicken broth or stock: Use low-sodium to control saltiness.
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Heavy cream or half-and-half: Makes the soup rich and smooth.
Seasonings
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Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
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Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste.
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Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch for a gentle heat.
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Nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle warmth to the creamy broth.
Optional Add-Ins
Want to change things up? These ingredients add flavor and texture:
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Sun-dried tomatoes: For tangy sweetness.
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Pesto: Swirl in a spoonful for herby richness.
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Parmesan rind: Let it simmer in the pot to boost flavor naturally.
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White beans or chickpeas: Add plant-based protein and creaminess.
This mix of ingredients helps create a soup that’s not just filling but full of flavor. In the next section, we’ll show how to bring it all together with easy, step-by-step instructions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making White Lasagna Soup is easy, and it comes together in one pot. Let’s break it down into simple steps.
1. Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not burnt.
2. Cook Proteins
Now, add your chicken (diced or shredded) or ground sausage to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to break up the meat, making sure it cooks evenly.
3. Build the Broth
Pour in your chicken broth and stir. Add in your Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes, so the flavors start to meld together.
4. Add Vegetables and Pasta
Once the broth is simmering, it’s time to add the veggies and pasta. Add the spinach (or kale) and any other vegetables you’re using. Toss in your lasagna noodles, broken into pieces, and let the soup cook for 8-10 minutes. The noodles should be soft, and the veggies tender.
5. Stir in Dairy
Turn the heat down to low. Add the cream cheese first, and stir it until it melts into the broth. Then, stir in the heavy cream, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until everything is smooth and creamy.
6. Final Touches
Add any final seasonings if needed. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stir in fresh spinach at the end for a burst of color and freshness. Let it wilt into the soup.
Now your soup is ready! Serve it hot with some extra Parmesan cheese on top. It’s perfect with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side.
Variations of White Lasagna Soup
The beauty of White Lasagna Soup is how easy it is to customize. You can change up the proteins, vegetables, and even the cheese to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to try:
Protein Variations
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Chicken: A light and mild choice. Use shredded cooked chicken for convenience.
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Sausage: Ground Italian sausage gives the soup a rich, savory flavor. You can also use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
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Turkey: Lean turkey is another healthy alternative. It works well with the creamy broth.
Vegetarian Option
If you’re going meatless, no problem! Skip the protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Load the soup with more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots. This will add texture and flavor.
Pasta Alternatives
While lasagna noodles are traditional, feel free to switch them out for any pasta you prefer.
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Mafalda corta: Small, ruffled pasta that mimics the look of lasagna.
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Penne or rotini: Easy to find and work well in soups. Just make sure to cook them al dente.
Dairy-Free Adaptations
For those avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy this soup! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella. The flavor will still be creamy and delicious without the dairy.
These variations allow you to adjust the recipe to your diet and taste preferences. Whether you’re making it vegetarian, dairy-free, or with a different protein, this soup is always a winner. Now, let’s look at some great ways to serve this soup and take it to the next level!
Serving Suggestions
Once your White Lasagna Soup is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are some simple and tasty ways to elevate your dish.
Garnishes
A few simple toppings can make your soup look and taste even better:
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Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick.
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Fresh basil or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the soup.
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Ricotta or pesto: Add a dollop of ricotta or a swirl of pesto for extra creaminess and flavor.
Accompaniments
Pair your soup with sides that complement its rich, cheesy goodness:
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Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
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Garlic bread: For a bold, buttery touch.
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Simple green salad: A fresh salad balances out the richness of the soup.
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Roasted vegetables: Lightly seasoned and roasted vegetables make a great side.
These simple additions will make your White Lasagna Soup feel even more special. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, these accompaniments will round out the meal perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers or want to make this soup ahead of time, here’s how to store and reheat it properly.
Refrigeration
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool before putting it in the fridge to avoid condensation.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup. However, don’t add the pasta before freezing. Pasta can get too soft when frozen and reheated. Freeze the soup base, and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat. Stir often until it’s hot throughout. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of broth or water to loosen it up.
With these simple tips, your soup can last for days and still taste just as delicious!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional value of White Lasagna Soup. Keep in mind that the exact numbers can vary based on the ingredients you use.
Calories
A typical serving of this soup has about 350-400 calories. This makes it a filling yet balanced meal.
Protein
Thanks to the chicken or sausage, each serving provides around 25-30 grams of protein. This helps keep you full and satisfied.
Fat
The fat content is around 20 grams per serving. Most of this comes from the cream and cheese, which give the soup its rich, creamy texture.
Carbohydrates
One serving contains about 30 grams of carbs. The pasta is the main source of carbs in this soup.
Fiber
You’ll get around 3-5 grams of fiber from the vegetables and pasta. Fiber helps with digestion and adds extra nutrition.
Vitamins and Minerals
This soup also provides vitamins like A and C from the spinach and other vegetables. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheese.
These numbers may vary, but this soup is generally a well-balanced meal that can fit into most diets. You can always adjust ingredients to fit your nutritional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about making White Lasagna Soup, with simple answers to help you out.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it at the end to warm it through.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
It’s better not to cook the pasta separately. You can add it directly to the soup. Just make sure to cook it until it’s al dente, so it doesn’t get too soft.
How can I thicken the soup?
To make the soup thicker, you can add more cheese or a little cornstarch mixed with water. Stir it in, and it will help thicken the broth.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. First, sauté the onions, garlic, and meat, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the dairy and pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What cheeses are best for this soup?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are the best for this soup. They melt well and add great flavor. You can also use other cheeses, but these are the traditional ones.
These FAQs should help clear up any questions you have while making White Lasagna Soup. Now you’re ready to dive in and enjoy this delicious, comforting dish!
Conclusion
White Lasagna Soup is a simple, cozy meal that everyone will love. It combines the flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, creamy soup. With tender pasta, melted cheese, and savory chicken, this dish brings comfort with every spoonful.
It’s easy to make, can be customized to your taste, and works for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it for guests, this soup will impress. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers and meal prep.
Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to enjoy a big bowl of White Lasagna Soup. Happy cooking!
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White Lasagna Soup – A Cozy, Creamy Comfort Food Classic
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- Author: Amanda Hartwellen
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
White Lasagna Soup is a creamy, comforting version of lasagna, made with tender pasta, savory chicken, and a rich, cheesy broth. This deconstructed lasagna is quicker and easier to prepare, offering all the delicious flavors of the traditional dish without the hassle of baking.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup spinach or kale (chopped)
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2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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1/2 cup ricotta cheese
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1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
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1 1/2 cups lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
For the Toppings:
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Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
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Optional: Ricotta or pesto for extra creaminess
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Cook Proteins
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Add the shredded chicken or ground sausage to the pot.
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Cook until browned and heated through, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
3. Build the Broth
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Pour in chicken broth, then add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables and Pasta
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Add spinach or kale and broken lasagna noodles to the simmering broth.
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Cook for 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender and the vegetables are soft.
5. Stir in Dairy
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Reduce heat to low and add ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and heavy cream.
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Stir until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Final Touches
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Stir in fresh spinach if you want extra color and flavor.
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Serve hot with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs on top.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
You can use turkey for a leaner option or skip the meat for a vegetarian version.
If the soup thickens too much, add extra broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American