If you’re craving the comforting flavors of classic Italian lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, this White Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It captures all the creamy, cheesy goodness of lasagna in a warm bowl of soup, combining tender noodles, savory ground turkey, and a luscious blend of cheeses in a rich broth. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this White Lasagna Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role, from the seasoned ground turkey adding savory depth to the trio of cheeses delivering that irresistible creaminess.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing, adding a subtle fruity richness that enhances the meat’s flavor.
- Ground turkey: A lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs spices wonderfully, keeping the soup light yet satisfying.
- Onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic warmth to build a flavorful foundation.
- Garlic, minced: Provides a punch of sharp, savory intensity that makes every bite memorable.
- Chicken broth: Creates the soup’s savory and comforting liquid base.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess that helps meld the flavors and gives the broth a rich texture.
- Tomato sauce (8 oz): Contributes a subtle tang and depth without overpowering the ‘white’ aspect of the soup.
- Dried basil and dried oregano: Classic Italian herbs that infuse the soup with herbal warmth and a hint of earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Lasagna noodles (broken into pieces): The heart of the dish, offering tender pasta bites to enjoy in every spoonful.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, mild richness that softens the texture and rounds out the taste.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully, giving stringy, gooey texture reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: Delivers sharp, nutty flavor that instantly elevates the entire soup.
- Fresh basil (optional): For a bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a fragrant finish.
How to Make White Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it until it’s nicely browned all over, breaking it up into small pieces with your spoon. This step is where the savory foundation of the soup builds, so make sure you get a bit of color on the meat to intensify the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened and translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This little bit of cook time adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
Step 3: Add Broth, Milk, and Tomato Sauce with Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and tomato sauce. Then stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring this flavorful mixture up to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to come together while you prepare the pasta.
Step 4: Cook the Broken Lasagna Noodles
Add the lasagna noodles broken into piece-sized bits directly into the simmering broth. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes until tender but not mushy, just like you would if they were going in a classic lasagna.
Step 5: Mix the Cheeses
While the noodles are cooking, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in a separate bowl. This creamy cheese blend is what transforms the broth into the signature creamy, dreamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe you’re aiming for.
Step 6: Stir Cheese Blend into Soup
Once the noodles are perfectly tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir the cheese mixture into the soup until it melts and blends in, creating a velvety, indulgent texture that will make you want to dive right in!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, if you like. Serve it piping hot and prepare yourself for lots of compliments—this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve White Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan can brighten the dish visually and add bursts of herbal freshness or sharp cheese flavor that complement each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crusty baguette, perfect for dipping and soaking up that creamy broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls or individual mini cocottes. You can also offer toppings like crushed red pepper flakes, extra shredded mozzarella, or even a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to let guests customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your White Lasagna Soup Recipe, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep nicely for up to 3 days, making for easy, flavorful lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but the texture of the pasta may soften more upon thawing. If freezing, leave the noodles out and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating for best results. Freeze the broth and meat mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add extra milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much. If your soup is frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef for ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will make the soup a bit richer and more traditional, but ground turkey keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground turkey for hearty mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This way, you’ll still get that comforting taste without the meat.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
You can, but lasagna noodles broken into pieces lend that unique texture that sets this soup apart. If you use other pasta, choose shapes that cook quickly and hold up well in soup, like rotini or small shells.
How do I ensure the cheese doesn’t clump when stirred into the soup?
Mixing the cheeses in a bowl before adding them to the hot soup and stirring gently off the direct heat helps the cheese melt smoothly without clumping into lumps.
Is this soup spicy?
Not by default. The White Lasagna Soup Recipe is mild and creamy, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This White Lasagna Soup Recipe is such a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna without the fuss of baking a whole casserole. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Once you try it, I bet it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for quick, cozy meals that feel truly special. Give it a whirl and enjoy every spoonful!
