As the chill of autumn settles in, I find myself gravitating toward warm, nourishing dishes that wrap around me like a cozy blanket. This is exactly what my Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup offers—a uniquely comforting experience! Packed with seasonal goodness from creamy butternut squash and vibrant kale, this vegetarian-friendly delight is perfect for those of us wanting to move away from fast food. With its quick prep time and the heavenly gooeyness of melted mozzarella, it’s a straightforward recipe that transforms dinner into a special occasion without any fuss. Ready to indulge in a bowl of comfort that feels like a hug on a chilly evening? Let’s dive into this culinary embrace together!

Why Is This Soup So Comforting?

Hearty Ingredients: This Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is filled with nutritious kale and sweet butternut squash, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Gooey Goodness: The melted mozzarella on top creates a delightful layer of flavor and texture, ensuring each bite is creamy and satisfying.

Time-Saving Meal: With easy prep and cooking steps, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen.

Fall Flavors: Infused with Italian spices and garlic, this dish captures the essence of autumn, making it a seasonal favorite that you’ll want to share with friends and family.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a cozy dinner or a gathering, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table. Pair it with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Ingredients

• Gather these delightful elements for an unforgettable experience!

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Cooking fat for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil for a unique twist.
Sweet Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or red onions can be used as alternatives.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick of heat; omit for a milder soup.
Garlic – Aroma-rich flavor; swap with garlic powder in a pinch.
Butternut Squash – The star of your soup, bringing sweetness and creaminess; can substitute with pumpkin if desired.
Italian Seasoning – A cornerstone of flavor; mix dried herbs like oregano and basil for a unique taste.
Vegetable Broth – The liquid base; chicken broth works for a non-vegetarian version.
Parmesan Rind – Adds umami depth in the broth; can be omitted or substituted with a similar cheese.

For the Pasta and Greens

Mafalda Pasta – Provides that lasagna vibe; broken lasagna noodles or shells are great alternatives.
Fresh Kale – Adds nutrition and texture; spinach makes a fine substitute if needed.

For Creaminess and Flavor

Heavy Cream – Delivers richness and creaminess to the soup; use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.
Brown Sugar – Balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness; maple syrup can be an alternative.
Mozzarella (Low Moisture) – The gooey topping that steals the show; try provolone for a different spin.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add a finely diced sweet onion with a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas.

Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in roughly chopped garlic and cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing it to soften and release its rich flavor. Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes aromatic and the onion is tender, making a cozy base for your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup.

Step 3: Incorporate the Veggies
Add diced butternut squash and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the pot, raising the heat slightly for a bit of caramelization. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to soften and develop a golden color. This step enhances the soup’s natural sweetness and flavor complexity.

Step 4: Create the Broth
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and toss in a Parmesan rind. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply flavorful base for your lasagna soup.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend half of the soup until it reaches a creamy consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Once blended, return the Parmesan rind to the pot for added depth, ensuring your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is beautifully balanced.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the mafalda pasta and let the mixture simmer uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb some of the liquid while becoming the perfect complement to your rich, comforting soup.

Step 7: Add the Final Touches
Turn off the heat and gently fold in fresh kale, heavy cream, and a teaspoon of brown sugar. This will brighten up the flavors and add sumptuous creaminess. Stir everything until the kale wilts, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, making your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup truly irresistible.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top each serving generously with shredded mozzarella. As the cheese melts over the soup, it creates a gooey, delicious layer perfect for snuggling up with on a cool evening. Your cozy Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup is now ready to be savored!

Make Ahead Options

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the butternut squash and onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the entire soup base (steps 1 through 5) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove, stirring in the mafalda pasta and finishing with kale, cream, and brown sugar, following steps 6 and 7. This ensures your soup remains just as delicious while saving you precious time during the week!

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Caramelization Magic: Ensure the butternut squash is slightly caramelized for maximum flavor; this sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
Blending Safely: Use an immersion blender cautiously to avoid splatters while blending the soup for desired creaminess.
Adjust Thickness: If your soup becomes too thick while reheating, add more broth to achieve your preferred consistency without sacrificing flavor.
Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving; adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper can elevate the Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup to perfection.
Pasta Precautions: Cook the pasta until just al dente; it will continue to soften while the soup sits, so don’t overcook it in the pot.

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

As the warmth of your cozy soup fills the air, consider these delightful accompaniments to create a memorable meal experience.

Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlicky knots bring an extra layer of comfort and complement the savory notes in the soup beautifully.
Parmesan Crisps: For a crunchy bite, these cheesy crisps provide a delightful texture and heighten the overall cheesy experience.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables tossed with olive oil and herbs create a colorful and nutritious side that pairs perfectly with the soup.
Sparkling Wine: A refreshing glass of sparkling wine or Prosecco can elevate the meal, enhancing the creamy, rich flavors with a bubbly zest.
Autumn Fruit Tart: For dessert, a tart made with seasonal fruits like pears or apples adds a sweet and fruity finish to your meal while echoing the fall theme.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can serve as a soothing way to end your meal, cleansing the palate and wrapping you in warmth.

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Variations

Feel free to take creative liberties with this cozy dish and make it your own!

Spinach Swap: Replace kale with fresh spinach for a milder flavor and a pop of vibrant color.
Grainy Goodness: Use quinoa or farro instead of mafalda pasta for a hearty, protein-packed twist that elevates the nutrition.
Pumpkin Twist: Substitute 1:1 with pumpkin puree, giving a different yet equally delicious flavor profile to your soup.
Cheesy Changes: Try provolone or gouda in place of mozzarella for a new melty richness and depth of flavor.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños alongside the onions for a little heat that awakens the senses and complements the creamy squash.
Vegan Version: Omit the heavy cream and mozzarella, using coconut milk and a cashew cheese instead for a dairy-free alternative.
Herb Infusion: Instead of Italian seasoning, use fresh thyme or rosemary to bring an aromatic twist that enhances the fall flavors beautifully.

Allow these suggestions to inspire your own culinary adventures! If you’re looking for more comforting dishes, don’t miss my recipes for Potato Bacon Soup or a delightful Shepherd’s Pie Soup. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It will continue to develop flavors as it melds in the fridge.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw any frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.

Serving After Storage: When reheating, taste and adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring it’s just as delicious as the day it was made!

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the perfect butternut squash for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has smooth, unblemished skin. The color should be a deep yellow or tan, with minimal green patches. Avoid squash with dark spots or soft areas, as these can indicate overripeness.

How long can I store Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup in the fridge?
You can store your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend letting it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain its freshness and flavor, ensuring a satisfying and comforting meal awaits you later!

Can I freeze Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup? If so, how?
Very much so! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely first. Then, ladle the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

What should I do if the soup gets too thick when reheating?
It’s a common occurrence! If you notice your Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup has thickened during storage, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating on the stove. Stir well, allowing it to blend into a creamy and delightful consistency once again, making it feel just as fresh as the day you made it.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup, simply substitute the mafalda pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives, available in various shapes. Rice or quinoa can also work beautifully for a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains dairy, so those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should opt for lactose-free cheese or non-dairy alternatives. Be sure to check all labels for any other allergens that may be present, depending on dietary needs.