This Creamy Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with pasta, rich tomato flavor, and creamy cheese, it’s an easy twist on classic lasagna.
Plus, it’s super fun to eat! I mean, who doesn’t love slurping up cheesy goodness? I like to sprinkle some fresh basil on top for that extra touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This ingredient adds rich flavor. You can choose mild or spicy based on your preference. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well, too!
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is fun to eat, but you could use any pasta like penne or rotini. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a veggie twist!
Heavy Cream: It makes the soup creamy and smooth. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute like coconut milk can be used instead.
Crushed Tomatoes: This forms the soup’s base. If fresh tomatoes are in season, use about 2 pounds of chopped tomatoes. Canned diced tomatoes can work too, but they make the texture chunkier.
How Can I Perfectly Cook My Pasta in Soup?
Cooking pasta in the soup can vary by type, so keep it al dente! It’s best to add it toward the end of cooking to avoid mushy results.
- Add the pasta during the last 8-10 minutes of simmering to keep it firm.
- Check for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions say. This prevents overcooking.
- If you have leftovers, cook the pasta separately. Stir it in when you’re ready to eat to avoid dishing out soggy soup!
How to Make Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, to taste)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a cozy bowl of flavors in about 45 minutes total! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, using a spoon to break it up. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, don’t forget to remove the excess fat from the pot.
2. Add Onions and Spices:
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook everything together for another minute until it’s all fragrant.
3. Combine with Tomatoes and Broth:
Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring everything until it’s well mixed. Bring the whole mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow all those delicious flavors to mingle.
4. Cook the Pasta:
After the flavors have blended beautifully, add the bowtie pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat a bit and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the soup is creamy and delightful. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Time to enjoy your creation! Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Pair It Up:
Serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. This combo makes for a heartwarming meal!
Now you have a bowl of creamy, flavorful lasagna soup that captures all the classic lasagna goodness in a warm and cozy soup. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works well in this recipe. You can add some Italian seasoning to mimic the flavor of Italian sausage. Just cook it until browned before adding the onions.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or use milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it slightly. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk can work too, though they may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess as needed.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it altogether. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture.