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Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup: A Christmas Eve Delight
Looking for a comforting dish to serve at your Christmas Eve dinner? This Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup brings the cozy, indulgent flavors of Italian cuisine to your festive table. Perfect for chilly winter evenings, this recipe combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of lasagna, creating a one-pot meal that’s sure to impress your family and guests. It’s the ultimate way to bring warmth and cheer to your holiday celebration.
Ingredients Overview
To craft the perfect Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for your Christmas Eve dinner, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a smooth, rich base for sautéing.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a warm, aromatic base.
- 1 lb ground chicken or Italian sausage: Adds protein and a savory flavor. For a vegetarian substitute, try mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates a rich, flavorful base. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The source of the soup’s creamy texture. Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a tangy, tomato-rich layer to balance the creaminess.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Provides the “lasagna” component, creating hearty bites throughout the soup.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Blends traditional Italian herbs.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances overall flavor.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the soup a nutty, savory depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, melty texture to the broth.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped: Brightens and garnishes the dish.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of spice for those who like a kick.
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Meat
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground chicken or Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. For a richer flavor, allow some pieces to crisp slightly. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. If needed, drain excess fat. - Sauté the Aromatics
Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes, letting the onion soften and the garlic release its fragrance. This step builds the base for your soup’s deep, savory flavor. - Add Broth and Sauces
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of heavy cream, and 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce. Stir well to combine. Season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the soup come to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. - Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Once the soup is boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir to ensure they’re submerged, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. - Add Cheese and Final Touches
Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Once melted, add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until the soup is rich and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. - Serve with Festive Flair
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. For a festive touch, serve alongside crusty bread and a light green salad. This Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is perfect for a cozy Christmas Eve dinner, bringing the warmth of the season to your table.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
- Consistency Control: If the soup thickens too much, add extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. For a lighter option, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Noodle Care: To avoid mushy noodles, add them only once the soup is simmering and stir occasionally.
- Customizable Spice: For those who like heat, increase red pepper flakes or opt for spicy Italian sausage.
Variations for Christmas Eve Gatherings
This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit any dietary needs or preferences, making it a great addition to your Christmas Eve dinner menu:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for mushrooms or plant-based sausage. Use vegetable broth for a flavorful base.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free options.
- Low-Fat Version: Replace heavy cream with milk or a lighter cream alternative.
- Spicy Twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
Why It’s Perfect for Christmas Eve Dinner
This Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is not just another winter dish; it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor. The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a standout choice for your Christmas Eve dinner. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a festive mocktail for a truly memorable meal.
For more ideas on making your holiday dinners special, check out 14 Soul-Warming Italian soups at Food Networkon Italy Magazine and check also 10 Classic Italian Antipasti and Soups and discover some of the finest examples
FAQs
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just cook the soup without the noodles, then add them fresh when reheating to avoid them becoming too soft. - What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but dairy-based soups can change texture when frozen. If freezing, omit the noodles and add them fresh when reheating. - How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the meat with mushrooms or plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Celebrate this holiday season with a bowl of Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup—a comforting and delicious way to bring joy to your Christmas Eve dinner!