Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, transforming it into a warm and comforting soup. Perfect for chilly fall evenings, this recipe combines the rich flavors of butternut squash and hearty kale, topped with melty mozzarella. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of butternut squash and mozzarella creates a creamy, delicious soup that’s perfect for cozy nights.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with kale and squash, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals while still tasting indulgent.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a filling main course; it’s sure to impress!
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: Ideal for simmering soups and allows for even cooking of ingredients without overcrowding.
• Immersion Blender: Perfect for pureeing the soup without transferring it to another container, saving time and minimizing cleanup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure you get precise quantities for ingredients, which is key to achieving the best flavor balance.

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 Soup 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
• 1 chunk Parmesan Rind

For the Pasta & Greens

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

For Creaminess & Sweetness

• 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

Creating this delicious soup is simple. Follow these steps for a delightful dish everyone will love.

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics

Add olive oil to a soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook down for 3 minutes until soft. Then add garlic and cook down for another 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Butternut Squash

Incorporate butternut squash along with Italian seasoning and another pinch of salt. Increase heat slightly and cook for about 5 minutes until the squash starts caramelizing.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in vegetable broth along with the parmesan rind. Bring to a boil for about 10 minutes. Remove the rind after boiling, then use an immersion blender to puree half of the soup until smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Return the parmesan rind back into the pot. Add broken pasta pieces and simmer for another 10 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish with Kale and Cream

Turn off the heat before adding fresh kale, heavy cream, brown sugar, stirring well. Taste your soup; season with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle soup into bowls and top each portion with about 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese before serving hot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is a warm, hearty dish perfect for fall evenings. Serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

In a Bread Bowl

• Use a crusty bread bowl to hold the soup; it adds flavor and is great for dipping.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch that brightens the flavors.

With Extra Cheese

• Consider adding an extra sprinkle of mozzarella on top before serving, allowing it to melt slightly for added creaminess.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of toasted baguette or ciabatta to enjoy every last drop of the soup.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Creating the perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella involves some simple tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh kale and seasonal butternut squash; they provide the best taste and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your preferences.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked only until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the soup.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using homemade vegetable broth for more depth of flavor than store-bought varieties.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey to the soup.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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

Pair your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella with delicious sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients alongside your soup.
4. Cheesy Garlic Muffins: Soft muffins infused with garlic and cheese offer a delightful contrast in texture.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavor-packed stuffed peppers make a filling side that pairs well with the soup’s taste.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs can be a healthy addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Be careful with overcooking the vegetables. The onions and garlic should be soft, but not browned. Keep an eye on them while cooking.
• Avoid using too much salt early on. Adding salt gradually helps you control the flavor better, especially later when adding the broth and cream.
• Don’t skip the immersion blending step. Pureeing part of the soup adds creaminess without needing extra cream. It also thickens the soup nicely.
• Watch out for neglecting to taste as you go. Adjusting flavors throughout cooking ensures a balanced and delicious soup.
• Make sure to store leftovers properly. Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh in the refrigerator or freezer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients in Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella?

This soup features butternut squash, kale, mozzarella cheese, pasta, garlic, and vegetable broth, creating a flavorful blend perfect for fall.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute mafalda pasta with any small shape like shells or even broken lasagna noodles based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit mozzarella or use plant-based cheese alternatives.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

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

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Perfect for chilly evenings, this cozy soup will surely become a staple in your kitchen!