Savor the Amazing Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Recipe

Introduction to Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup. This delightful recipe combines the rich, creamy flavors of butternut squash with the hearty goodness of lasagna, all in a soothing soup form. Packed with nutrient-dense kale and melty mozzarella cheese, this soup is the perfect way to savor the flavors of fall and winter.

Table of Contents

Ingredients Breakdown

The key to this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is using fresh, high-quality ingredients that work in harmony to create a truly exceptional dish. Let’s take a closer look at the essential components:

• Olive Oil – Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics.
• Sweet Onion – Adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Lends a subtle hint of heat and spice.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall savory profile.
• Butternut Squash – The star ingredient, providing a rich, creamy texture and natural sweetness.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of dried herbs that infuses the soup with classic Italian flavors.
• Vegetable Broth – The liquid base that ties everything together.
• Parmesan Rind – Adds a delightful umami note and depth of flavor.
• Mafalda Pasta (or dried lasagna noodles) – Provides the “lasagna” element, breaking up the soup with tender bites of pasta.
• Fresh Kale – Adds a nutrient-dense boost and lovely green color.
• Heavy Cream – Contributes to the soup’s silky, indulgent texture.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.
• Low Moisture Mozzarella – Melts beautifully to create that classic lasagna-inspired cheese pull.

By using fresh, high-quality ingredients, you’ll ensure your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is bursting with flavor and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the easy-to-follow instructions for creating this comforting Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Then, add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook Squash: Next, add the butternut squash and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Add Broth & Parmesan: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the Parmesan rind. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Blend Soup: Remove the Parmesan rind from the pot. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender.
5. Cook Pasta: Add the broken lasagna noodles (or mafalda pasta) to the soup and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
6. Add Kale & Cream: Stir in the fresh kale, heavy cream, and brown sugar. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt and the soup to become deliciously creamy.
7. Serve: Ladle the Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a comforting and flavorful Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup that’s sure to warm you up on a chilly day.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Not only is this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup utterly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Kale, the nutrient-dense green in this recipe, is rich in vitamins K, A, and C, along with essential minerals like calcium and iron. The use of vegetable broth and Parmesan rind adds depth of flavor without excessive sodium or fat, while the heavy cream provides a creamy, indulgent texture.

Variations and Substitutions

While the original Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup recipe is a true delight, there are several ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Pasta Alternatives: If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free lasagna noodles or other small, bite-sized pasta shapes like macaroni or ditalini.
• Dairy-Free Options: Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative, such as unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. For the cheese, use a dairy-free mozzarella shred.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or even crumbled tofu to make this soup more substantial.
• Spice It Up: For a bolder flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder to the soup.

No matter how you choose to customize it, this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

Serving Suggestions

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp salad or a crusty slice of bread for dipping. Consider garnishing each bowl with a sprinkle of additional shredded mozzarella, a few fresh sage leaves, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. As for leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Spinach – Another cozy, fall-inspired soup that features nutrient-dense vegetables.
• Vegetable Lasagna with Zucchini Noodles – A lighter take on traditional lasagna, with zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
• Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A delicious, cheese-filled pasta dish that complements the flavors of the Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup.

FAQs About Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Can I use fresh or frozen butternut squash for this soup? You can use either fresh or frozen butternut squash for this recipe. If using fresh, you’ll need to peel, seed, and dice the squash before adding it to the pot. Frozen squash cubes work just as well and can save you some prep time.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! To make this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup vegetarian, simply omit the Parmesan rind and use a vegetable-based Parmesan alternative. For a vegan version, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based milk or cream substitute, and use a dairy-free mozzarella shred.

Can I substitute kale with another leafy green? Yes, you can easily swap the kale for another nutrient-dense green, such as spinach, chard, or even baby arugula. The preparation and cooking method would remain the same.

How long can I store leftovers, and should I refrigerate or freeze them? Leftover Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is the ultimate cozy, comforting dish for the fall and winter seasons. With its rich, creamy texture, savory-sweet flavor profile, and nutrient-dense ingredients, it’s a meal that nourishes the body and warms the soul. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty main course or a soothing starter, this soup is sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy instructions, and get ready to savor the delicious taste of autumn in every spoonful!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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