Description
Hearty white lasagna soup offers a comforting twist on classic Italian cuisine. Creamy layers of cheese, chicken, and herbs blend into a soul-warming bowl that promises satisfaction for hungry diners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz (226 g) lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1.5 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2.3 cups baby spinach
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsps butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsps all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Ricotta cheese (optional)
- Extra parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Aromatic Foundation: Melt butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg. Allow spices to bloom and release their fragrant essence.
- Liquid Transformation: Sprinkle flour to create a roux, whisking continuously. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring to prevent lumps. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, allowing flavors to harmonize.
- Protein and Pasta Integration: Introduce shredded chicken and broken lasagna noodles. Cook until pasta reaches al dente perfection, absorbing the rich, savory broth while maintaining a delightful texture.
- Creamy Elevation: Reduce heat and pour in half-and-half. Fold in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until they melt completely, creating a luxurious, velvety consistency. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Final Flourish: Gently incorporate spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gracefully. Ladle into warm bowls and top with a dollop of ricotta. Optionally, garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs for added complexity and visual appeal.
Notes
- Control Roux Consistency: Whisk flour carefully and slowly to prevent clumping, ensuring a smooth base that thickens the soup without creating lumpy texture.
- Choose Pasta Wisely: Break lasagna noodles into smaller, bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and easier eating experience without losing traditional lasagna essence.
- Manage Dairy Integration: Add half-and-half and cheeses off direct heat to prevent separation or curdling, creating a silky smooth soup with rich, creamy consistency.
- Balance Herb Intensity: Use fresh herbs sparingly to complement the soup’s delicate flavors without overwhelming the subtle nuances of chicken and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg