Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup Recipe

1. Begin with Browning the Meat
   In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, warm the oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage or chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Sauté until browned, and remove any excess fat to avoid a greasy broth.
2. Build the Flavor Base
   To the browned meat, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This step infuses the soup with a savory, aromatic base.
3. Add Broth and Sauces
   Pour in the chicken stock, heavy cream, and marinara sauce, stirring everything together. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, which helps meld the flavors.
4. Cook the Noodles
   Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot, stirring to coat them with the broth. Let them simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender but still hold their shape. This step is key to creating the lasagna feel in each spoonful.
5. Cheese Melting Time
   Reduce the heat to low, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it in until it’s fully melted and incorporated. Add the mozzarella cheese and stir until the soup becomes creamy and thick, with each spoonful delivering a cheesy, satisfying bite.
6. Serve and Garnish
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely heat.

Pairing Suggestions
To enhance the Italian flavors of this dish, serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a lemon-dressed arugula salad. Freshly baked garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. For a true Italian experience, a glass of Pinot Grigio or a sparkling San Pellegrino adds a nice touch.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with diced zucchini or mushrooms, creating a lighter version that still packs plenty of flavor.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or mix in a bit of cornstarch with low-fat milk for a lower-calorie creamy base.
• Spicy Sausage Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes for a fiery twist on the original.

Nutritional Benefits