How to prepare it
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Brown the ground chicken or Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
- Add garlic and onion to the pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Mix in tomato preserves, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil after tasting and adjusting heat as needed.
- Stir in the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they are completely submerged in the liquid. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Lower the heat further and stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts and thickens the soup. Finally, add the mozzarella and stir until well combined.
- Serve hot, ladling soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and if desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Best ways to enjoy it
Plating this Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is as simple as it is satisfying. Serve it warm in rustic bowls topped with fresh herbs to showcase the delightful colors. Pair it with a crisp side salad and some garlic bread for a full meal experience. You can also sprinkle additional cheese on top just before serving for an appealing presentation that your dinner guests will love.
How to store & freeze
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When storing, consider keeping the noodles separate if possible, as they may continue to absorb liquid and become overly soft. For longer storage, you can freeze the cream base without the noodles. Once cooled, ladle it into freezer-safe bags or containers and label them. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding freshly cooked noodles to maintain texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially for herbs and garlic, as they significantly enhance flavor.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by modifying the amount of cream and stock; for a richer taste, stick to the recipe; for a lighter version, substitute some cream with more broth.
- Experiment with spices; feel free to add a dash of nutmeg or more red pepper flakes for heat, depending on your family’s preference.
Creative twists
If you’re in the mood to experiment, there are plenty of ways to customize this soup! Consider adding sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for extra nutrients. You can also swap out the tomato preserves for a different sweet element, like roasted red peppers, to give the soup a distinct flavor profile. Vegan options are available using plant-based ground meat and cashew cream—which can make this a fully plant-based dish!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare and cook this soup?
From start to finish, expect about 30-40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even a meat substitute works well, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Its creamy texture and familiar flavors make it appealing for children. You can adjust the spices to ensure it’s mild enough for young palates.
Make this Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup your go-to recipe for indulgent comfort food any time of the year!
