Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lasagna soup is comfort food at its best—but this version elevates it into a luxuriously creamy experience. The addition of cream cheese brings unparalleled richness, while familiar seasonings and pasta make it family-friendly and easy to love. All this, with no pork, bacon, or alcohol—just heartwarming flavor in every spoonful.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Aromatics & Soup Base
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
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1½ cups water
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Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Creamy Component & Pasta
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4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
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6 broken lasagna noodles (whole wheat or gluten-free options available)
Optional & Garnish
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1 cup baby spinach or kale, finely chopped
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium. Sauté onions for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic, basil, and oregano; stir until fragrant. Mix in tomato paste and cook briefly.
Build the Soup Base
Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate Creaminess
Whisk in softened cream cheese until the soup becomes velvety and homogenized. Optional mozzarella can be added for extra gooey texture.
Add Noodles & Optional Greens
Stir in noodles and greens if using. Simmer 10–12 minutes until noodles are al dente and greens are wilted.
Serve with Flair
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Optionally drizzle olive oil or sprinkle Parmesan. Enjoy with crusty bread.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Friendly
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or alternative pasta.
Vegetarian Adaptation
Ensure broth is vegetable-based. Add white beans or mushrooms for texture.
Extra Creaminess
Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or omit broth for a thicker texture.
Protein Boost
Add shredded chicken or rotisserie pieces while simmering the noodles.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Meal Prep
Make soup base (without cheese and noodles) up to 2 days ahead.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth as needed.
Freezing
Freeze the base without noodles or cheese up to 3 months. Thaw and cook noodles fresh when serving.
Nutrition Snapshot (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: ~380 kcal
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Protein: ~13g
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Fat: ~15g
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Carbs: ~40g
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Fiber: ~3g
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Rich in calcium, vitamin C, and lycopene
FAQs
Can I swap cream cheese?
Yes—use goat cheese or mascarpone for a tangy twist. Dairy-free cream cheese works too.
Will noodles get soggy?
To preserve texture, cook separately and add to bowls before serving.
Can I make it less rich?
Use half-and-half instead of cream cheese, and reduce cheese.
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely. Kids love the creamy texture and familiar flavors.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes—add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when simmering.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort meal—cozy, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness. It transforms a classic into a soul-soothing bowl ideal for chilly nights and loved ones.
