Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup

Description:
This Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup combines all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a rich and creamy soup form. With layers of tender pasta, creamy Alfredo sauce, melty cheese, and savory seasonings, this cozy dish is perfect for chilly nights. It’s an easy one-pot meal that brings the flavors of lasagna to your bowl!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

For the Soup Base:

• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Ground Italian sausage: 1 lb (450 g)
• Yellow onion (diced): 1 medium
• Garlic cloves (minced): 4
• Chicken broth: 4 cups (960 ml)
• Heavy cream: 2 cups (480 ml)
• Diced tomatoes (canned, drained): 1 can (14.5 oz or 400 g)
• Broken lasagna noodles: 8-10 sheets (about 6 oz or 170 g)
• Dried basil: 1 tsp
• Dried oregano: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp (to taste)
• Black pepper: ¼ tsp (to taste)

For the Cheese Layer:

• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup (240 g)
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 1 ½ cups (180 g)
• Parmesan cheese (grated): ¾ cup (60 g)
• Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish): 2 tbsp

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Cream

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, diced tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Add the Noodles

1. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. While the soup is simmering, in a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese.
2. Once the noodles are cooked, dollop spoonfuls of the cheese mixture into the soup and gently stir to combine. The heat of the soup will melt the cheese, creating creamy pockets throughout.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Success:

• Noodle Variation: Feel free to use other types of pasta like rotini or shells if you don’t have lasagna noodles.
• Richness: Adjust the creaminess of the soup by adding more or less heavy cream, depending on your preference.
• Meat Options: You can substitute ground turkey or beef for the Italian sausage if desired.
• Add Veggies: For extra flavor, add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the soup.

Recommendations:

• Serving Idea: Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Fiber: 2 g

This Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a perfect comfort food dish that combines the best elements of lasagna in a cozy, easy-to-make soup form. Enjoy the creamy goodness in every spoonful!