As the chill of the evening rolls in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a bubbling pot on the stove. That’s where my Quick White Lasagna Soup comes into play, transforming the rich flavors of classic lasagna into a cozy, creamy soup that warms both heart and soul. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll be ladling out a deliciously satisfying bowl filled with tender chicken, pasta, and a medley of intriguing cheeses. This recipe is not only a time-saver for busy weeknights, but it also promises to be a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table. Are you ready to cozy up with a dish that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl? Let’s dive into the comforting goodness!
Why is this soup so comforting?
Creamy Indulgence: The luxurious, velvety broth envelops you in warmth, making each spoonful a delight.
Family-Friendly Meal: This Quick White Lasagna Soup is loved by kids and adults alike, ensuring happy faces at your dining table.
Time-Saving Wonder: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to sacrifice time.
Flavorful Ingredients: With herbs, tender chicken, and three types of cheese, this soup brings the rich taste of traditional lasagna right into your bowl.
Versatile and Adaptable: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or vegetables, as seen in my Busy Day Soup for a unique twist!
Indulge in flavor and comfort, without the hassle.
Quick White Lasagna Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this creamy delight!
For the Soup Base
- Butter – Adds richness to the soup base; unsalted is best for controlled seasoning.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be a milder alternative.
- Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; freshly minced is preferred over jarred.
- Italian Seasoning – Blends various herbs for a Mediterranean flair; use your favorite dried herb mix if needed.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust it per your taste and dietary needs.
- Black Pepper – Adds warmth; fresh ground pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
- Chili Flakes – Offers a hint of heat; leave them out if you prefer a milder option.
For the Chicken and Broth
- Chicken Broth – Acts as the soup’s base; low-sodium broth is ideal to manage salt levels.
- Chicken Breast – Protein that becomes tender with cooking; substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
For the Soup Ingredients
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and tang; fresh tomatoes can be used if adjusted for cooking time.
- Pasta (Campanelle/Fusilli) – Provides texture; cook separately to maintain a hearty soup.
- Spinach – Adds color and freshness; kale or chard can be used but may require longer cooking.
- Nutritional Yeast – Enhances flavor with a cheesy profile; omit if unavailable.
For Creaminess and Cheese
- Half-and-Half – Creates a creamy texture; heavy cream or milk can be used for variation.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener; flour works in a pinch.
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess; mascarpone can substitute for a richer taste.
- Parmesan Cheese – Offers saltiness; Pecorino Romano can provide a sharper flavor profile.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into the soup, contributing to creaminess; whole milk mozzarella is preferred.
Each of these ingredients plays a role in crafting the comforting flavor of Quick White Lasagna Soup you won’t forget!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick White Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by roughly chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and dicing the sun-dried tomatoes. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. This Quick White Lasagna Soup will come together smoothly, so having all your ingredients prepped and ready will allow you to enjoy a seamless cooking process.
Step 2: Cook Aromatics
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes, stirring frequently until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Simmer Soup
Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, then add the cubed chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 12-15 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
While the soup is simmering, bring a separate pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of campanelle or fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside. This method keeps the pasta from becoming overly starchy in the Quick White Lasagna Soup.
Step 5: Thicken Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of half-and-half and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering soup while stirring gently. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the soup thickens slightly, creating a creamy texture that elevates your Quick White Lasagna Soup.
Step 6: Finish Soup
Remove the cooked chicken from the soup and shred it using two forks, then return it to the pot along with the drained pasta and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Stir gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through. The combination of flavors and textures will be irresistible.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the delicious Quick White Lasagna Soup into bowls and generously top each serving with dollops of ricotta, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. This step not only enhances the presentation but also adds layers of creamy flavor, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
Expert Tips for Quick White Lasagna Soup
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Cook Pasta Separately: Always prepare the pasta in a different pot to keep the soup from becoming starchy; add it just before serving.
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Whisk to Thicken: When incorporating half-and-half with cornstarch, whisk them together before adding to the soup to prevent curdling.
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Shred Chicken Warm: Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling and to maintain the tender texture in the Quick White Lasagna Soup.
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Store Wisely: If you have leftovers, keep the pasta separate from the soup to maintain texture when reheating; add broth as needed.
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Freezing Tips: For freezer-friendly options, omit the pasta before freezing; you can always add freshly cooked noodles when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What to Serve with Quick White Lasagna Soup
As the comforting aroma of this creamy soup fills your kitchen, envision how wonderfully the flavors can dance with other delightful dishes.
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, making each bite a harmony of textures.
- Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh, zesty salad dressed in lemon balances the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing interlude.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli adds a healthy crunch, complementing the comforting nature of the lasagna soup.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Gooey, cheesy sticks can be dunked into the soup, elevating the experience with an irresistible, savory bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of seasonal vegetables brings out deeper flavors in the soup while adding a pop of color to the plate.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the cozy meal with its bright acidity, clearing the palate between bites.
- Crusty Italian Ciabatta: Serve with slices of crusty ciabatta for perfect dipping, soaking up the broth and adding heartiness to your meal.
- Dessert Idea: Tiramisu: Round off the dinner with a luscious tiramisu, its coffee flavors providing a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick White Lasagna Soup components are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can chop the vegetables (onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes) and cut the chicken into chunks up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness. The soup can also be fully cooked and stored, but for optimal texture, keep the pasta separate and add it just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy soup, simply reheat it on the stove, stir in the cooked pasta, and heat until warmed through. This way, you’ll savor every hearty bite of your Quick White Lasagna Soup, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Storage Tips for Quick White Lasagna Soup
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Fridge: Store leftover Quick White Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain the best texture, keep the pasta separate until ready to reheat.
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Freezer: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months, but avoid adding pasta before freezing. Instead, cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers for optimum quality.
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Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency and prevent the soup from becoming too thick. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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Serving Tip: For the best experience, remember to stir in the shredded mozzarella and other cheeses just before serving, enhancing the melty goodness in every bowl.
Quick White Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to tailor the recipe just to your liking!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute half-and-half with a rich coconut milk for a unique flavor and creamy texture without dairy.
For those sensitive to dairy, coconut milk provides the same lusciousness. Plus, it adds a delightful hint of sweetness. -
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with roasted veggies or hearty lentils for a soul-nourishing plant-based version.
This transformation not only maintains the comforting essence but also introduces a vibrant array of seasonal vegetables, making your meal both colorful and nutritious. -
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or increase the chili flakes for a delightful heat that warms you from the inside out.
With just a hint of spice, you elevate the flavor profile, making your Quick White Lasagna Soup an exciting experience for your taste buds. -
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme in place of dried Italian seasoning to invigorate your soup with freshness.
Just imagine the aroma as those herbs blend together, transforming every bowl into a garden of flavors. -
Cheesy Version: Incorporate a blend of smoked gouda or sharp cheddar alongside mozzarella for a unique twist on cheesiness.
The melting textures of these cheeses will create an unforgettable, creamy experience that’s simply luxurious. -
Lentil Boost: Swap out some of the chicken for cooked lentils to add texture and protein, perfect for a filling vegetarian option.
Each spoonful will now bring a delightful chewiness, balancing perfectly with the creamy broth and tender pasta. -
Pasta Variety: Use different pasta shapes like shells or penne for an unexpected texture in your Quick White Lasagna Soup.
These shapes will catch the rich broth beautifully, making each bite a memorable treat. -
Nutty Nutrition: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
Not only do these nuts provide a satisfying texture, but they also enhance the overall flavor, making each bowl utterly irresistible.
Feel free to explore these variations while enjoying the comforting goodness of this classic recipe. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weekday, your Quick White Lasagna Soup will always be a hit, just like this Lemon Blueberry Lasagna or my savory Italian Penicillin Soup!
Quick White Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh, vibrant vegetables. Look for onions with firm, unblemished skin, and garlic that is plump and heavy, without sprouting. With sun-dried tomatoes, examine the texture; they should feel slightly chewy, not overly dry.
What’s the best way to store leftover Quick White Lasagna Soup?
To store delicious leftovers, place the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the pasta separate until you’re ready to reheat, as this helps maintain the ideal texture when enjoying your meal again.
Can I freeze Quick White Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can! For freezing, skip adding the pasta before freezing. Let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and cook fresh pasta to mix in right before serving.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries, this is an easy fix! If your Quick White Lasagna Soup turns out thicker than you like, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well and heat gently until warmed through.
Can this soup be made allergen-friendly?
Very much so! To make it more allergen-friendly, you can swap dairy ingredients for alternatives, such as using coconut cream instead of half-and-half and opting for dairy-free cheese options. Additionally, check label ingredients on the broth to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Is this soup suitable for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing this soup with pets as ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs and cats. For a safe treat, you could prepare a small batch of plain, boiled chicken pieces and vegetables that they can enjoy separately!
Creamy Quick White Lasagna Soup for Cozy Comfort Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and dicing the sun-dried tomatoes. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- In a separate pot, cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Whisk together half-and-half and cornstarch, then gradually add to the soup while stirring. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Shred the cooked chicken, return to the pot along with pasta and spinach. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Serve soup in bowls topped with dollops of ricotta, grated Parmesan, and mozzarella.
