Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella Recipe

If you are looking for a cozy, comforting, and utterly delicious meal, this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is an absolute game-changer. Imagine the rich, creamy sweetness of butternut squash mingling with tender pasta, vibrant kale, and melting mozzarella, all infused with fragrant Italian herbs and a gentle hint of spice. This recipe brings all the heartwarming flavors of classic lasagna into a soul-soothing soup that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a bowl of pure comfort. The blend of textures and fresh ingredients makes every spoonful irresistible, and once you try Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy lasagna in an unexpected but delightful form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the sweetness of the butternut squash to the sharp umami of Parmesan rind, creating a perfect harmony inside your pot.

• Olive Oil: The base for sautéing produces a fragrant start and helps soften the vegetables beautifully.
• Sweet Onion: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when cooked down gently.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A hint of heat that wakes up the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Garlic: Provides a warm, aromatic backbone essential to Italian cooking.
• Butternut Squash: The star of the soup with its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that tie the soup to traditional lasagna flavors.
• Vegetable Broth: Adds body and umami, making the soup rich without being heavy.
• Parmesan Rind: Intensifies savory notes and adds complexity when simmered in broth.
• Mafalda Pasta: Broken lasagna noodles bring that classic pasta feel in a soup form.
• Fresh Kale: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter crunch and bursts of vibrant green color.
• Heavy Cream: Rounds out the soup with luscious creaminess for the perfect balance.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness and complements the savory flavors.”
• Low Moisture Mozzarella: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible cheesy finish.

How to Make Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot set over medium heat. Add the finely diced sweet onion along with a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes. Let the onion gently sweat for about three minutes until it becomes fragrant and soft. Then toss in the roughly chopped garlic and continue cooking for another three minutes. This step is all about developing those wonderful aromatic flavors that set the stage for the entire soup.

Step 2: Caramelize the Butternut Squash

Next, add the cubed butternut squash along with Italian seasoning and another pinch of salt. Turn the heat up slightly and cook, stirring occasionally, for about five minutes or until the edges of the squash start to caramelize. This adds a beautiful depth of sweetness and complexity that makes each spoonful memorable.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Parmesan

Pour in the vegetable broth and toss in the Parmesan rind. Bring everything to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for ten minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the Parmesan rind infuses a rich, savory undertone. After simmering, remove the rind and use an immersion blender to puree about half of the soup. This technique gives you a silky texture with a satisfying mix of smooth and chunky elements.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Return the Parmesan rind to the pot and add the broken mafalda pasta pieces. Simmer for about ten minutes, or until the pasta is just tender. This step transforms the soup into a heartier dish that’s reminiscent of your favorite lasagna but in a wonderfully cozy form.

Step 5: Finish with Kale, Cream, and Sweetness

With the heat off, stir in fresh kale, heavy cream, and brown sugar. The kale adds a fresh pop of vibrant green and a slightly earthy flavor, while the cream brings luscious richness, and the brown sugar balances everything with just the right touch of sweetness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for the perfect harmony.

Step 6: Top with Mozzarella and Serve

Ladle the soup generously into bowls and crown each serving with a generous handful of low-moisture mozzarella shreds. The cheese will melt into a gooey, irresistible layer that completes this delightful dish.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Garnishes

Adding extra garnishes can really elevate your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley inject brightness and fresh herbal notes. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or a dusting of crispy fried shallots can add an exciting textural contrast.

Side Dishes

This soup shines on its own but pairing it with crusty, warm bread such as a rustic baguette or garlic bread is absolute perfection. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, balancing the creamy richness with refreshing crispness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella in mini bread bowls for a rustic, cozy presentation. Another idea is layering the soup with additional mozzarella and Parmesan then broiling it briefly for a bubbly, golden cheese topping that captures the lasagna experience even more vividly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the soup often tastes even better the next day. Just be sure to stir well before reheating as the pasta tends to absorb a lot of broth.

Freezing

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella freezes well if you want to save some for later. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. Keep in mind the kale may become softer upon thawing, so you might want to add fresh kale when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the soup from sticking or scorching. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid during storage.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While mafalda or broken lasagna noodles are traditional here, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even broken spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it uses vegetable broth and Parmesan rind. Just double-check your Parmesan to ensure it’s made without animal rennet if you are strict about vegetarian dietary needs.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, simply omit the heavy cream and cheese or swap them for plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and your favorite vegan mozzarella. The soup will still be creamy and flavorful.

How spicy is the soup?

It has a gentle kick from the red pepper flakes that adds warmth without overwhelming the other flavors. Feel free to adjust the amount to your personal spice preference.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?

Yes, you can make the soup a day ahead and reheat it before serving. For best texture, add fresh kale and mozzarella just before serving to keep things vibrant and melty.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It effortlessly combines the comforting essence of lasagna with the nourishing goodness of a hearty soup, making it a perfect meal for any season. Give it a try and share it with your loved ones—you might just find that it becomes a beloved staple in your own kitchen!

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