Oh, the comfort of a cozy kitchen on a chilly day! I first stumbled upon the magic of Sausage and Spinach Lasagna Soup during one of those long, overcast winters when all I craved was something hearty and soothing. One quick trip to the grocery store and a little experimentation in the kitchen later, I whipped up this delightful dish that smells like a warm hug – rich, savory sausage mingling with the vibrant aroma of sautéed garlic and earthy spinach wafting through the air.
As I ladled this glorious concoction into bowls, I felt the deep satisfaction of having created something that not only tastes like love but brings everyone together around the table. Friends have called it a “one-pot wonder,” and I simply can’t disagree! With each sip, you’ll savor layers of flavors reminiscent of a classic lasagna, all wrapped in a cozy, soup format. I’m confident you’ll fall in love with it just as I did.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Simplicity: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!
- Quick to Prepare: Dinner is on the table in about 30 minutes!
- Nutrient-Packed: Spinach adds a wonderful boost of nutrition.
- Flavorful Comfort: A delightful blend of sausage, herbs, and savory broth that warms the soul.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Easily Adaptable: Make it your own with simple swaps and additions!
Recipe Snapshot
| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|—————-|—————-|———–|———–|————|——-|————-|
| Soup | Italian-American| 10 mins | 20 mins | 30 mins | 4 | Easy |
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground sausage: Adds that rich, savory heartiness. Choose spicy or mild based on your taste!
- 1 small onion, chopped: A flavor base that brings sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: These lend a lovely umami flavor and a satisfying texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic superstar that elevates every bite.
- 4 cups baby spinach: Fresh greens that bring color and nutrition; they wilt beautifully!
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful foundation; use low-sodium to control salt.
- 5 lasagna noodles, broken: Perfect for that signature lasagna texture in soup form.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A hint of herbal warmth – the ultimate Italian seasoning!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A sprinkle on top takes this soup to gourmet levels.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Brown the Sausage
In a large pot, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned. Ah, can you smell that savory aroma? Be sure to stir occasionally to break up any large pieces. It’s the base of our cozy soup!
2. Sauté the Veggies
Add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their juice and softened for about 5 minutes. The kitchen will smell divine at this stage!
3. Add the Broth
Stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a lovely boil. This is your soup’s comforting foundation; let those flavors mingle and dance!
4. Noodle Time!
Throw in the broken lasagna noodles and dried oregano, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the noodles are tender. Check on it occasionally and stir for even cooking.
5. Spinach Surprise
Once the noodles are ready, stir in the baby spinach until wilted. It’ll just take a minute, and you’ll see those gorgeous greens add a pop of color and nutrition!
6. Season It Up
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir and take a moment to savor that fragrant steam wafting up—it’s pure bliss!
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Gather your loved ones, and enjoy every comforting spoonful together!
Pro Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, use Italian sausage instead of plain ground sausage.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a boost!
- Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the broth based on how soupy or hearty you desire your dish.
- Don’t skip the cheese topping; it creates a delicious creamy finish!
Flavor Variations
- Swap out the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Toss in some red pepper flakes for a kick of heat!
- Use seasonal vegetables, like kale in the winter or cherry tomatoes in summer, for a refreshing twist.
- Want a cheesy version? Add ricotta or mozzarella near the end of cooking for extra creaminess!
Serving Suggestions
This soup is perfect served with warm, crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the hearty flavors. A glass of red wine or a sparkling Italian soda marries perfectly with the comforting flavors of the soup. For plating, give your soup a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to brighten it up!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prep this soup ahead of time! Cook as instructed, but hold off on adding the spinach and breaking the lasagna noodles until you’re ready to enjoy. This soup will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Leftovers
Reinvent your leftovers by turning them into a pasta bake! Just layer the soup with some mozzarella and pop it in the oven until bubbly and golden. Or, scoop it over a baked potato for a hearty twist!
Freezing
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for a quick defrost!
Reheating
The best reheating method is on the stovetop! Just pour it into a pot and heat over medium until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free lasagna noodles?
Yes, gluten-free noodles work great! Just follow the package instructions for cooking times as they may vary.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage for hearty veggies like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth for a delightful meat-free version.
How can I enhance the flavor?
Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for depth and a nice kick.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
No worries! You can use frozen spinach; just thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is all about the love you pour into it, and I truly believe this Sausage and Spinach Lasagna Soup embodies warmth and togetherness. Whether you’re gathered around the table with family or enjoying a quiet moment with your bowl, I hope this dish brings a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Happy cooking, my friends! Enjoy every cozy spoonful! 💖
Sausage and Spinach Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground sausage Adds that rich, savory heartiness. Choose spicy or mild based on your taste!
- 1 small onion, chopped A flavor base that brings sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced These lend a lovely umami flavor and a satisfying texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced The aromatic superstar that elevates every bite.
- 4 cups baby spinach Fresh greens that bring color and nutrition; they wilt beautifully!
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth A flavorful foundation; use low-sodium to control salt.
- 5 pieces lasagna noodles, broken Perfect for that signature lasagna texture in soup form.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano A hint of herbal warmth – the ultimate Italian seasoning!
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for balancing flavors.
- Grated to taste Parmesan cheese (optional) A sprinkle on top takes this soup to gourmet levels.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a large pot, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their juice and softened for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a lovely boil.
- Throw in the broken lasagna noodles and dried oregano, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Once the noodles are ready, stir in the baby spinach until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.