My White Lasagna Soup takes everything you love about classic lasagna and transforms it into the most comforting bowl of goodness. Picture this tender chicken swimming in a velvety rich broth alongside perfectly cooked pasta and fresh veggies. It's my go to recipe when I'm craving those cozy lasagna flavors but want something a little lighter and quicker to prepare.
What Makes This Soup Special
This soup gives you all those amazing lasagna flavors without the hours of prep. In just 30 minutes you'll have a bowl of pure comfort food magic creamy broth tender chicken and that wonderful cheesy topping we all love. It's perfect for those busy nights when you need something cozy and delicious but don't have time for layering traditional lasagna.
Everything You'll Need
- Butter: Two tablespoons unsalted it makes everything taste better.
- Onion: One medium diced creates our flavor foundation.
- Garlic: Four cloves minced because garlic makes everything wonderful.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning salt pepper and a little kick from red pepper flakes.
- Chicken Broth: Six cups low sodium lets us control the saltiness.
- Chicken Breast: Two pieces they'll cook right in the broth.
- Sundried Tomatoes: Half cup optional but adds amazing flavor.
- Pasta: Two cups I love Mafalda Corta it looks like mini lasagna noodles.
- Half-and-Half: One cup mixed with cornstarch for that perfect creamy texture.
- Spinach: Two cups fresh adds color and nutrition.
- Cheese: Ricotta and Parmesan or mozzarella for that classic lasagna finish.
Let's Make Some Soup
- Build the Base
- Start by melting butter and cooking those onions and garlic until your kitchen smells amazing about 5 minutes.
- Create the Broth
- Pour in your broth seasonings and those lovely sundried tomatoes if using. Add the chicken and let everything simmer until it's perfectly cooked.
- Pasta Time
- Cook your pasta separately trust me on this one it keeps everything perfect.
- Prep the Chicken
- Once it's cooked through shred that chicken into bite sized pieces.
- Make It Creamy
- Whisk your half and half with cornstarch then stir it in watch the magic happen as it thickens.
- Bring It Together
- Add your spinach and pasta let it all come together for a few minutes.
- Time to Serve
- Ladle into bowls top with those gorgeous cheeses serve it up hot.
Make It Your Own
This soup is so flexible swap the chicken for turkey or make it vegetarian with veggie broth. Need it gluten free? Just use your favorite gluten free pasta. Love extra veggies? Toss in some carrots celery or mushrooms. Want it extra indulgent? Add a block of cream cheese or sprinkle some crispy bacon on top.
Keep It Fresh
Your soup will stay delicious for 3 to 4 days in the fridge just warm it gently when you're ready for more. Planning ahead? Make the base without cream and pasta freeze it for up to 3 months then just add those final touches when you reheat.
Perfect Pairings
Nothing beats dunking some crusty garlic bread into this soup. Want something lighter on the side? A simple green salad works beautifully. Going all out? Serve it with roasted veggies or even a little charcuterie board. Don't forget that extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley on top.
My Best Tips
Always cook your pasta separately it keeps the leftovers perfect. Spring for the full fat cream it makes such a difference. Take time with those onions and garlic letting them get golden adds so much flavor. Want it thicker? Let it simmer a bit longer or add more cornstarch mixed with cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
- Short pasta or broken lasagna noodles work well. Mafalda Corta (mini lasagna noodles) is ideal, but any short pasta shape will work.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Store pasta and soup separately in the refrigerator for 3-4 days to prevent noodles from getting soggy. Reheat gently in microwave or on stovetop.
- → Can I adjust the thickness?
- Yes, use 4 cups of broth instead of 3 for a thinner soup. The cream's fat content also affects richness - higher fat makes a richer soup.
- → Are sundried tomatoes necessary?
- No, they're optional but add nice flavor depth. You can skip them or substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes if preferred.
- → What cheese works best for garnish?
- Ricotta, Parmesan, or mozzarella all work well. You can use one or a combination based on your preference.