Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup: 5 Reasons to Love It

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *butternut squash lasagna soup*! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want to cozy up. Imagine all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna—rich tomato, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella—turned into a delightful soup! I remember the first time I made it; the smell of sautéing garlic and onion filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. It’s packed with the goodness of butternut squash, making it not just delicious but also a tad bit healthier. Trust me, once you try this soup, it may just become your new favorite comfort food. You’ll want to dive right in and savor every spoonful!

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Gather these ingredients to create your cozy bowl of butternut squash lasagna soup. I promise, each one plays a big role in bringing this dish to life!

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped (I love using a sweet onion for extra flavor!)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought, your choice!)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with their juices
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into rough pieces (don’t worry about making them perfect!)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (this adds that lovely herby flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (for that creamy goodness)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (because who doesn’t love melty cheese?)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional, but it adds a lovely touch!)

How to Prepare Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this butternut squash lasagna soup! Each step is super straightforward, and I promise the reward is totally worth it. Grab your favorite pot, and let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I usually let it warm for about a minute before adding the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes. You’ll love how the aroma fills your kitchen!

Step 2: Cook Butternut Squash

Next up, add the diced butternut squash to the pot. Give it a good stir and let it cook for about 5 minutes. It’s important to stir occasionally to make sure everything cooks evenly. You want those edges to get just a little tender before we move on!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes—juices and all! Stir in those broken lasagna noodles and the Italian seasoning. Bring it all to a boil; you’ll see those noodles starting to soften and soak up all that flavor!

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it and give it a stir now and then. You want the butternut squash to be fork-tender, which means it should break apart easily when you poke it!

Step 5: Add Ricotta Cheese

After the squash is tender, it’s time for the star of the show—ricotta cheese! Stir it in until it’s well combined. This is where the soup gets its creamy goodness, making every bite feel like a warm embrace. Yum!

Step 6: Serve the Soup

Finally, ladle your delicious soup into bowls and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. I like to add a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor! Serve it hot, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy. Trust me, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Nutritional Information for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness packed into this comforting butternut squash lasagna soup! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with each bowl. Here’s the breakdown:

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 14g

This soup is not only delicious but also a great source of nutrients thanks to the butternut squash and other wholesome ingredients. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something that’s both comforting and nourishing!

Tips for Success with Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Want to take your butternut squash lasagna soup to the next level? I’ve got some pro tips that will ensure it’s absolutely perfect every time you make it!

• Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be shy about tasting as you go! If it needs a little more flavor, sprinkle in some extra Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Remember, seasoning can really elevate your soup!
• Add More Ricotta: If you love a creamy texture (who doesn’t?), feel free to add more ricotta cheese. It makes the soup even richer and more comforting. Just stir it in until it’s melted and luscious!
• Make It Ahead: This soup is a great make-ahead dish! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it!
• Freeze for Later: Leftovers? No problem! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh basil! It adds a wonderful touch of freshness and color that complements the rich flavors. You can even drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for an extra layer of flavor!

With these tips, you’ll be a butternut squash lasagna soup pro in no time! Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

FAQ about Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This butternut squash lasagna soup is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up a bit as it heats. It’s just as comforting the next day, if not better!

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you’re looking to substitute ricotta cheese for dietary reasons or personal preference, there are a few great options! You can use cottage cheese for a similar texture, just blend it a bit for creaminess. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, try silken tofu blended until smooth or a vegan ricotta made from nuts. Both will add that creamy goodness you’re after without compromising taste!

How can I make this soup spicier?

Want to spice things up a notch? There are a few simple ways to add some heat! One of my favorite methods is to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while the soup simmers. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. Another option is to add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce when you’re combining the ingredients. Just remember, you can always add more, but it’s tough to take heat away, so start small and taste as you go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight meal option!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious butternut squash and wholesome veggies, it’s a comforting dish you can feel good about.
• Comfort Food Appeal: With all the flavors of traditional lasagna, this soup will warm your heart and soul.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your delicious creation!
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, or freeze it for later!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will want seconds!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Got leftovers? No worries! This butternut squash lasagna soup stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it again later. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!
• Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if it’s frozen. Then, reheat it gently in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of vegetable broth if it seems too thick. Heat until it’s warmed through!
• Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual servings. Just place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Be careful, it can get hot!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last drop of this delicious butternut squash lasagna soup, even days after you first made it. Enjoy!

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