This White Lasagna Soup is a luscious blend of creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta, all infused with the comforting flavors of Italian seasoning. Topped with ricotta, Parmesan, or mozzarella cheese, each spoonful delivers a rich, savory experience that feels like a warm embrace. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this soup takes the best elements of white lasagna and transforms them into a one-pot wonder. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx. 300g)
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped; optional)
- 2 cups short dry pasta or broken lasagna noodles
- 1 cup half-and-half or cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- Ricotta cheese, Parmesan, or shredded mozzarella for garnish
Directions:
- In a large dutch oven or soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until slightly browned.
- Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add chicken broth and stir. Place chicken breasts and sun-dried tomatoes into the pot.
- Simmer over medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Cook pasta separately in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
- Remove cooked chicken from the pot, shred it, and set aside.
- Whisk cream and cornstarch together to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the soup, followed by the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and spinach.
- Heat through and serve, garnished with ricotta, Parmesan, or mozzarella as desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 459 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
White Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite
White Lasagna Soup is an innovative dish that combines the hearty, creamy flavors of white lasagna with the cozy, warming qualities of soup. This recipe brings together all the best elements of the beloved Italian casserole and transforms them into a comforting bowl perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare.
The Inspiration Behind White Lasagna Soup
The inspiration for this dish stems from the classic white lasagna, a variation that swaps the traditional tomato-based sauce for a rich béchamel or creamy Alfredo-style sauce. White lasagna is renowned for its velvety layers of pasta, tender chicken, and spinach, often complemented by creamy ricotta and the sharpness of Parmesan. While lasagna is universally adored, its preparation can be time-consuming. Enter White Lasagna Soup a brilliant adaptation that delivers the same flavors and satisfaction without the need for meticulous layering or long baking times.
This soup is designed to be as effortless as it is delicious. With a one-pot approach and minimal prep time, it caters to both the busy home cook and the discerning foodie. By incorporating the same ingredients found in traditional white lasagna, this recipe guarantees a familiar, nostalgic flavor profile in a fraction of the time.
Why You’ll Love White Lasagna Soup
1. Rich and Creamy:
One of the hallmarks of White Lasagna Soup is its indulgent creaminess. Made with a base of chicken broth enhanced by a slurry of cream and cornstarch, the soup achieves a luxurious texture without being overly heavy. The addition of ricotta, Parmesan, or mozzarella as a garnish adds even more depth and richness to every spoonful.
2. Packed with Protein and Veggies:
This soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. Tender shredded chicken provides a substantial protein boost, while fresh spinach adds a dose of vitamins and minerals. Sun-dried tomatoes, though optional, contribute a pop of tangy sweetness that balances the creamy broth beautifully.
3. Customizable:
White Lasagna Soup is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. Whether you’re looking to make it gluten-free with alternative pasta, vegetarian by omitting the chicken, or extra hearty with added vegetables, this recipe can accommodate a variety of dietary needs and tastes.
4. Quick and Easy:
Traditional lasagna can take hours to assemble and bake, but this soup is ready in just 35 minutes. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and homemade without a lot of fuss.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Family Dinners:
White Lasagna Soup is a hit with both kids and adults. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it irresistible, while the mild flavors ensure it’s appealing to even the pickiest eaters. Pair it with some crusty garlic bread or a fresh side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that will please the entire family.
Entertaining Guests:
When hosting friends or family, this soup can easily be dressed up for a more elegant presentation. Serve it in individual bowls with a sprinkling of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-quality touch. Its unique twist on a classic dish is sure to spark conversation and admiration at the table.
Comfort Food for One:
Sometimes, you just need a comforting bowl of soup to wind down after a long day. White Lasagna Soup is the perfect companion for those moments, offering warmth and indulgence in every bite.
Tips for the Best White Lasagna Soup
- Choose the Right Pasta:
Using short pasta shapes like Mafalda Corta, rotini, or bow-tie ensures that each bite includes a perfect balance of noodles, chicken, and broth. These pasta shapes also cook quickly and evenly, making them ideal for this dish. - Cook the Pasta Separately:
To prevent the noodles from becoming overly soft or soaking up too much broth, cook them separately and add them to the soup just before serving. This tip is especially useful if you plan to store leftovers. - Enhance the Flavor:
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of nutmeg to the soup. This subtle spice complements the creamy base beautifully and is a classic addition to béchamel-style sauces. - Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh spinach, garlic, and quality cheeses make a noticeable difference in the final taste of the soup. While frozen spinach can be used in a pinch, fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and texture that elevates the dish.
Variations to Try
Gluten-Free Version:
Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety. Ensure that the rest of your ingredients, like chicken broth and cream, are certified gluten-free as well.
Vegetarian Option:
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
Spicy Twist:
If you love a little heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, try incorporating smoked paprika into the seasoning mix.
Meat Lovers’ Delight:
While shredded chicken is the star of this dish, you can also mix in crumbled Italian sausage, diced ham, or crispy bacon for a meatier variation.
Serving Suggestions
White Lasagna Soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your dining experience:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess of the soup.
Conclusion:
White Lasagna Soup is a testament to the versatility of comfort food. It takes the beloved flavors of a classic dish and reinvents them in a way that’s practical, approachable, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, nourishing your family, or simply treating yourself, this soup offers a delightful combination of ease and indulgence. Its creamy broth, tender chicken, and hearty pasta will leave you feeling warm, satisfied, and eager to make it again.
By adding this recipe to your repertoire, you’re not just making a meal you’re creating a tradition of comfort and joy that’s sure to be cherished for years to come. So grab your ladle, gather your ingredients, and savor the magic of White Lasagna Soup!
