Broccoli Cheddar Lasagna Soup

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

📝 Ingredients List

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup cooked smoked chicken strips (diced) for savory depth
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and black pepper to taste

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the chopped broccoli, chicken broth, and smoked chicken strips. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Drop in your broken lasagna noodles and simmer for about 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted into a glossy, velvety sauce. 🧀
6. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste. Serve hot and enjoy! ✨

💡 Pro Tips Section

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that the pasta will absorb liquid, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
• Substitution: If you prefer a meat-free version, simply omit the smoked chicken strips and add an extra half-cup of broccoli or white beans for protein.
• Cheese Choice: Always shred your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded bags; it melts much smoother!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the onion sauté step for a mild heat.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in a handful of fresh baby spinach right before serving for a boost of greens.

FAQ

Can I use different pasta shapes? Yes! Farfalle or rotini work perfectly if you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand.

Is this soup freezer-friendly? We recommend freezing the soup base without the noodles and pasta, then cooking fresh pasta when you are ready to serve to keep the texture perfect.