Indulge in the rich, creamy warmth of this Alfredo Lasagna Soup, where the classic taste of Alfredo sauce meets the comforting layers of lasagna, all in one satisfying bowl. With a smooth, savory blend of flavors, this soup brings together Italian ingredients in a delightful, cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.

Recipe Overview

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup combines the signature creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the hearty texture of lasagna noodles and a savory broth, creating a flavorful, filling soup. Made with ground chicken or Italian sausage as the meaty base, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses melt into a velvety consistency, offering a dish that’s both easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or special meals.

Origins and Inspiration

While both lasagna and Alfredo sauce are iconic Italian dishes, they come from different regional traditions. Lasagna, known for its layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce, has roots in Ancient Rome, while Alfredo sauce emerged in early 20th-century Rome, celebrated for its rich, garlicky flavor. This recipe brings both classics together, celebrating Italy’s culinary heritage with a unique, comforting twist.

Ingredients

To make this Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground chicken or Italian sausage
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Meat

• Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven.
• Add ground chicken or Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Break into small pieces with a spatula, and drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent. This enhances the flavor of the soup.

3. Add Broth and Sauces

• Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and marinara sauce, stirring to combine.
• Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, adjusting as desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the Noodles

• Add broken lasagna noodles to the pot, ensuring they are submerged.
• Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes until the noodles are tender.

5. Add the Cheese

• Lower the heat, then stir in grated Parmesan, allowing it to melt and thicken the soup.
• Add shredded mozzarella, stirring until the soup becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Serve the Soup

• Ladle soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat, if desired. Serve warm.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup hot with crusty or garlic bread for soaking up the creamy broth. It pairs well with a green salad, like Caesar or arugula with lemon vinaigrette. For extra Italian flair, add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute ground chicken with mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth.
• Low-Calorie: Use half-and-half or a milk-cornstarch mixture in place of heavy cream.
• Spicy: Add spicy Italian sausage or extra red pepper flakes.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and verify that other ingredients are gluten-free.

Health Notes and Benefits

This soup is a hearty meal offering several nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Ground chicken or sausage supports muscle health.
• Calcium: Parmesan and mozzarella contribute to bone strength.
• Antioxidants: Garlic, basil, and marinara sauce contain inflammation-fighting antioxidants. For a lighter version, use some of the low-calorie substitutions above.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead?
   Yes, but add the noodles just before serving to avoid sogginess. Reheat the soup and cook the noodles fresh before serving.
2. Can I use other pasta?
   If lasagna noodles aren’t available, use flat pasta like bow-tie, rigatoni, or fusilli.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding extra broth or cream if it thickens.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
   Freezing cream-based soups may cause separation. For best results, freeze without dairy and add cream when reheating.
5. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
   Substitute with crushed tomatoes and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

Conclusion

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is a warm, inviting fusion of two Italian classics, bringing the richness of Alfredo and the comfort of lasagna together in a bowl. This versatile recipe allows for adjustments to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Cozy up with a bowl alongside garlic bread or a crisp salad for a memorable meal any time of year. Enjoy!