Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is the perfect dish to warm you up during those chilly Fall days. Loaded with tender butternut squash, fresh kale, and rich, gooey mozzarella, this soup combines the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a cozy bowl. It’s suitable for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or just a delightful meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: This soup delivers all the comforting tastes of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip up.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like butternut squash and kale, it’s both delicious and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Soup Pot
• Immersion Blender
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: A good-sized pot allows for even cooking and prevents splatter when stirring.
• Immersion Blender: This handy tool helps create a creamy texture by blending part of the soup directly in the pot.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring you can mix all ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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
• 1 chunk Parmesan Rind

For the Pasta and Greens

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

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 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

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

Step 2: Cook the Squash

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

Step 3: Add Broth and Blend

Pour in vegetable broth along with the parmesan rind. Bring to a boil for approximately 10 minutes. Remove the rind afterward. Use an immersion blender to puree about half of the soup for a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate Pasta

Return the parmesan rind to the pot. Add broken-up pasta to the soup. Simmer for another 10 minutes or until pasta is cooked through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Turn off heat and mix in fresh kale, heavy cream, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine all flavors. Taste test and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle generous portions into bowls. Top each serving with a handful of Land O’ Lakes® Mozzarella Farmstyle Shreds (about 1/2 cup each) for that extra cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Serving butternut squash lasagna soup with kale and mozzarella is a delightful experience, perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair your soup with warm garlic bread for a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
• Ciabatta Rolls: These soft rolls are perfect for dipping into the rich, cheesy broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that complements the flavors of the soup.
• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

With Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
• More Mozzarella: Top each bowl with additional mozzarella shreds before serving for that gooey texture.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

To achieve the best version of butternut squash lasagna soup with kale and mozzarella, follow these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly, making your soup taste vibrant and wholesome.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Blend to Your Liking: Pureeing part of the soup gives it a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for heartiness.
• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While mafalda pasta works great, feel free to try other shapes like shells or even gluten-free options.
• Add Protein: For those wanting more substance, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey pieces right before serving.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together!

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

Pairing side dishes with butternut squash lasagna soup enhances your meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s sweetness.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a hearty side that complements the soup beautifully.
4. Vegetable Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini or carrots add texture and nutrition to your meal.
5. Garlic Parmesan Knots: Soft bread knots tossed in garlic butter and parmesan make for a tasty addition alongside your soup.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad topped with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the onion: Onions add a depth of flavor. Always include them for a well-rounded soup.
• Overcooking the kale: Adding kale too early can make it mushy. Stir it in at the end to keep its vibrant color and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning at every stage can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Not using enough vegetable broth: Using too little broth can thicken the soup excessively. Ensure you have enough liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Overcooking pasta can make it soggy. Keep an eye on the cooking time specified on the packaging.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella?

You can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter option.

How do I customize Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or spinach or try different cheeses!

Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh butternut squash works wonderfully and adds great flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is not just comforting; it’s also versatile! You can easily customize it by adding more veggies or adjusting the cheese. Give this cozy fall recipe a try – it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!