Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, blending the comforting flavors of fall into a warm, hearty soup. Loaded with nutrient-rich kale and melty mozzarella, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. This soup not only warms your body but also satisfies your taste buds with its rich and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Cozy: This soup provides all the warmth and comfort of lasagna in a bowl.
• Nutrient-Packed: With butternut squash and kale, it’s loaded with vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make it accessible for all skill levels in the kitchen.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great as a starter or as a hearty main dish!
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella adds irresistible creaminess to each serving.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Soup Pot
• Immersion Blender
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Soup Pot: A spacious pot is crucial for cooking large batches of soup evenly.
• Immersion Blender: This tool allows you to puree the soup without transferring it to another container, keeping clean-up easy.
• Cutting Board & Knife: These are essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This butternut squash lasagna soup is loaded with kale and lots of ooey gooey mozzarella. It’s the perfect cozy soup recipe for Fall!

For the Base

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 medium Sweet Onion (finely diced)
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 5 cloves Garlic (roughly chopped)
• 6 cups Butternut Squash (about 2lbs)
• 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 2 quarts Vegetable Broth

For the Pasta and Greens

• 1 chunk Parmesan Rind
• 1/2 lb Mafalda Pasta (or dried lasagna noodles) (broken up)
• 2 cups Fresh Kale

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 1 cup Low Moisture Mozzarella (I recommend Lake o’Lakes Mozzarella shreds)

How to Make Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Add olive oil to a soup pot over medium heat. Include the finely diced onion along with a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Then add the roughly chopped garlic and cook for another 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook Butternut Squash

Add the cubed butternut squash, Italian seasoning, and another pinch of salt. Increase the heat slightly and sauté for about 5 minutes until the squash begins to caramelize.

Step 3: Add Stock and Puree Soup

Pour in vegetable broth along with the Parmesan rind. Bring everything back to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the rind before using an immersion blender to puree about half of the soup for a creamy texture.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Return the Parmesan rind back into the pot. Stir in broken-up mafalda pasta or lasagna noodles, then simmer again for another 10 minutes or until pasta is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish with Kale & Cream

Turn off heat; mix in fresh kale, heavy cream, and brown sugar. Stir well. Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls, topping each serving generously with shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1/2 cup per bowl). Enjoy!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Serving butternut squash lasagna soup is an enjoyable experience that allows you to customize each bowl. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add a Flavorful Garnish

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a kick, a pinch adds a delightful heat.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the rich broth.

Include Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Add sliced grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.
• Roasted Chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, sprinkle roasted chickpeas on top for crunch.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Making the perfect butternut squash lasagna soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Always taste and adjust your seasonings. A little more salt or pepper can make a big difference.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh kale and high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
• Texture Variation: Blend only half the soup to create a creamy texture while keeping chunks of butternut squash intact.
• Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency; just add more broth as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with butternut squash lasagna soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Ceasar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crispness that balances the creamy soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty addition.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring freshness.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for dipping in the soup’s broth.
6. Mediterranean Flatbread: Lightly seasoned flatbreads can be used to scoop up the delicious soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the onion and garlic can lead to a bland soup. Sautéing enhances the flavors, so take the time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add the pasta too early, it may become mushy. It’s best to simmer it until just cooked through, which usually takes about 10 minutes.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: The soup might need extra salt and pepper after blending. Always taste and adjust seasonings at the end for a balanced flavor.
• Using too much cream: While heavy cream adds richness, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for a creamy but not overly rich texture.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh kale is crucial for texture and flavor. Using wilted or old greens can negatively affect your soup’s overall quality.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella?

This dish is a comforting soup featuring butternut squash, kale, and melted mozzarella cheese, offering a delicious twist on traditional lasagna.

Can I use different pasta types in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute mafalda pasta with any small pasta shape like shells or penne according to your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk and skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is a delightful meal that embodies comfort and warmth. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or an impressive appetizer, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try today!

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