This Cheesy Alfredo Lasagna Soup takes all the goodness of lasagna and turns it into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavors that will warm your heart!
You can feel like a chef with just one pot to clean! Plus, who wouldn’t want to twirl their noodles in a rich Alfredo sauce? It’s perfect for chilly nights and great for sharing with family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This brings tasty flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well. You can also use vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a meatless version!
Wide Egg Noodles: These noodles add a satisfying bite to the soup. If you’re out of egg noodles, try using any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or even gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
Alfredo Sauce: A jarred Alfredo sauce makes this soup creamy and rich. If you prefer homemade, mix together butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. You can also use a dairy-free option if you want to keep it plant-based.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings color and nutrients. You could substitute kale, Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just be sure to thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Well-Seasoned?
To achieve that delicious creaminess in your Alfredo soup, adding the cheeses at the end is key. Stir them in gently and let them melt completely into the soup for a smooth finish. Here’s a breakdown of how to get it right:
- Start with sautéing the sausage until fully cooked; this adds flavor through the fat rendered.
- When adding the Alfredo sauce and milk, heat gently without boiling to keep it creamy.
- After you add the cheeses, stir continuously until well blended, making sure they don’t clump.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to balance flavors. If it’s too rich, a splash of lemon juice can help.
Cheesy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 8 oz wide egg noodles or broken lasagna noodles
- 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Alfredo Lasagna Soup can be prepared in about 15 minutes of prep time, and it cooks in about 20 minutes for a total of around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy days or cozy evenings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat if you choose to use it. Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. This will give your soup a hearty and savory flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until you can smell its delicious aroma.
3. Add Broth and Noodles:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the wide egg noodles or broken lasagna noodles. Cook according to the package instructions until the noodles are al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
4. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients:
Once the noodles are cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the Alfredo sauce, whole milk or heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well to combine into a creamy delight!
5. Add Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just long enough for the spinach to wilt and blend into your soup.
6. Stir in the Cheeses:
Finally, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt and create a rich and creamy texture. This is where your soup transforms into a cheesy goodness!
7. Season:
Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cheesy Alfredo Lasagna Soup hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Pair it with toasted bread or garlic bread for dipping, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be a great substitute if you prefer it over sausage. Just cook it thoroughly until browned, following the same steps as with the Italian sausage.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for added flavor. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use a dairy-free cream option along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy and delicious.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the cream and cheeses. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, then stir in the cream and cheese before serving.
