This Zucchini Lasagna Soup is a warm and cozy dish that combines all your lasagna favorites in a tasty bowl. It’s packed with zucchini, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese!
Who needs noodles when you’ve got zucchini? This soup brings smiles and warmth on chilly days. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar. 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds great flavor! If you prefer a vegetarian option, use lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Turkey sausage is also a lighter alternative.
Zucchini: Using zucchini noodles gives this soup its unique character. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use summer squash or even spiralized carrots for a sweeter taste.
Broth: I recommend low-sodium chicken broth for better control of saltiness. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, a vegetable broth works wonderfully without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese: Parmesan brings a rich flavor; feel free to use Pecorino Romano if you want something sharper. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy note!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Noodles Stay Nice?
Keeping your zucchini noodles from becoming mushy is key! Here’s how to ensure they stay firm and fresh in your soup:
- Spiralize the zucchini just before adding it to the soup to keep it crisp.
- Be sure to add them towards the end of cooking and just let them simmer for around 5 minutes.
- Adjust the heat so they cook gently—this preserves their texture.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious and perfectly cooked zucchini noodles that enhance your soup experience!
Zucchini Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Zucchini Lasagna Soup will take around 15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. By the time you’re done, you’ll have a warm and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once the oil is hot, add the ground Italian sausage. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it turns browned, which takes about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
2. Sautéing the Veggies:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté with the sausage until the onion becomes soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This step really brings out the flavors!
3. Adding the Base Ingredients:
Now it’s time to pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, thyme, along with salt and pepper to your taste. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows all those tasty flavors to meld together.
4. Incorporating the Zucchini Noodles:
After the soup has simmered, it’s time to add the zucchini noodles. Stir them in gently and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. We want the zucchini to be tender but still slightly crunchy so it retains its lovely texture!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the zucchini is ready, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in your freshly chopped basil or parsley along with the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into the soup and makes it extra creamy.
6. Serving It Up:
Now for the fun part! Ladle the delicious soup into bowls. If you’d like extra cheesiness, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top. Garnish with more herbs and a dash of Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor. Isn’t it pretty?
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve up your Zucchini Lasagna Soup hot and enjoy every cozy bite. This dish is perfect for a chilly evening, and it’s packed with nutritious goodness!
With a delightful mix of rich Italian flavors, this comforting soup is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness! 🍲
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even beef for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based sausage.
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini Noodles?
No worries! If you can’t find zucchini noodles, you can use other vegetables like yellow squash, carrots, or even regular lasagna noodles. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly for any pasta you use to ensure they stay al dente.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat when you’re ready to enjoy it. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Lasagna Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and enjoy it within 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to eat!
