Ah, Deconstructed Lasagna Soup. This dish first graced my kitchen on a rainy Thursday evening when the clouds loomed dark, and my to-do list seemed just as heavy. The smell of sautéed onions and garlic filled my quaint kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace as I tinkered with what I had on hand. When the bubbling pot finally revealed itself, a comforting melody of savory broth, tender noodles, and flecks of vibrant basil danced together, tempting my taste buds and lifting my spirits. This hearty soup became an enchanting go-to meal for those chilly evenings, and I can assure you, it’s about to become your favorite, too.

It’s easy to see why this dish is loved by so many; it’s like taking a warm hug and turning it into a bowl of bliss! With each happy slurp, you get the familiar flavors of lasagna without all the fuss of assembly. Just imagine sitting down with family or friends, cozying up while the steam swirls around, and savoring every last bite of this delightful creation. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, it comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults alike; who doesn’t love comfort food?
• Flavorful: It’s suited for flavor lovers with its blend of Italian herbs, cheese, and hearty chicken.
• Hearty and Healthy: Nutritious ingredients combined make for a wholesome meal that satisfies.
• Flexibility: You can easily customize this soup for dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: This is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any grilled chicken you have on hand.
• 1 onion, diced: Fresh onions add a sweet aroma, drawing everyone into the kitchen with their savory scent.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that classic Italian flavor—don’t skip it!
• 4 cups chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the seasoning and make it nourishing.
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Adds body and a bright, tangy flavor.
• 2 cups lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Break them up into fun, rustic shapes for easy soup slurping.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A little sprinkle of this makes magic happen—feel free to adjust for your taste!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out all the flavors and enhancing the dish.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds that dreamy creaminess that is signature to lasagna.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: The melting cheese on top is just heavenly!
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish: A final sprinkle for an extra touch of flavor—don’t hold back!
• Fresh basil, for garnish: Because fresh herbs always elevate the dish; and the scent is simply heavenly.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. As the onions soften and the garlicky aroma begins to waft through your kitchen, you’ll know it’s time to move on to the next step!

2. Stir in the Goodness

Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, broken lasagna noodles, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic begins! Just look at that inviting blend of colors and textures; your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!

3. Bring to a Boil

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked. Ah, just picture this bubbling pot simmering away while the flavors meld—an irresistible, comforting scene!

4. Mix in the Cheeses

Stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Watch as it transforms the broth into a luscious, creamy soup, and be prepared for the taste explosion!

5. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Give it a little stir and let the cheese swirl rediscover its melting, delightful glory—now that’s a bowl of happiness!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a variety of cheeses. Experiment with provolone or a smoky gouda for a special twist.
• Make use of leftover veggies you have in the fridge to boost nutrition.
• If you want spiciness, sprinkle in a bit of red pepper flakes!
• Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if you prefer a soupier dish.
• Don’t skip the garnishes; they add freshness that elevates the soup!

Flavor Variations

• Swap the chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even a meatless sausage for a different flavor profile.
• In autumn, add roasted butternut squash for a sweet, earthy twist.
• A handful of spinach or kale near the end adds a beautiful pop of color and nutrients.
• Want an extra kick? Toss in some Italian sausage or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with a side of crunchy garlic bread or a light caesar salad. Serve it in deep bowls, letting the vibrant colors shine through, and offer a generous scoop of Parmesan on the side. For a delightful drink, a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon would make a lovely accompaniment.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Feel free to prep this soup ahead of time by chopping vegetables or even making the entire dish in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Leftovers

Use any leftovers as a delightful base for a pasta bake! Just mix with cooked pasta and top with extra cheese before baking until bubbly.

Freezing

Yes, it can be frozen! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and remember to leave space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For getting the best out of your leftovers, use a skillet over medium heat for an even warm-up, or pop it in the microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lasagna noodles?
Absolutely, just remember they may cook a bit faster than the dried ones, so keep an eye on them!

How do I adjust this for a vegetarian version?
Simply swap the chicken for mushrooms or lentils, use vegetable broth, and load it up with your favorite veggies!

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cream cheese or cottage cheese will work beautifully in a pinch, providing similar creaminess.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency, and stir well over heat.

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and Deconstructed Lasagna Soup encompasses just that—comfort, flavor, and ease all wrapped in one warm bowl. I hope this recipe brings a sprinkle of coziness to your table, as it has to mine. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some delicious memories together! Happy cooking, dear friends! 🌿❤️