The aroma of simmering garlic and roasted butternut squash drifts through my kitchen, instantly evoking the warmth of cozy fall nights. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella—an indulgent twist on a beloved classic that’s perfect for anyone looking to swap out fast food for something wholesome and delightful. With its creamy, cheesy texture and vibrant kale, this comforting soup is not only a feast for the senses but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a hearty bowl on chilly evenings. So, are you ready to dive into this cozy comfort food that feels just like a warm hug from your favorite sweater? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Irresistible?

Comforting and Hearty: This soup delivers all the cozy vibes of classic lasagna in a warm, spoonable form, perfect for fall evenings.
Quick to Prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have this mouthwatering dish ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to impress family and friends, keeping everyone coming back for more.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with kale and butternut squash, this dish is not just indulgent but also nutritious, making it a wholesome alternative to takeout.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein, ensuring every bowl is uniquely satisfying. Whether paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup makes for a complete meal the whole family will love!

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Ingredients

This creamy butternut squash lasagna soup with kale & mozzarella is an absolute delight to prepare!

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables. Substitute with vegetable oil for a neutral flavor.
Sweet Onion – Provides sweetness and depth to the base. Substitute with yellow onion if needed.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a gentle heat. Omit for a milder flavor.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor. Use minced garlic or garlic powder if fresh is not available.
Butternut Squash – Main ingredient providing creaminess; caramelizes to enhance sweetness. Substitute with pumpkin or sweet potatoes if unavailable.
Italian Seasoning – Adds herbaceous notes; can be replaced with dried oregano and thyme.
Vegetable Broth – Base liquid for the soup, offering flavor. Use chicken broth for a savory twist.
Parmesan Rind – Adds umami flavor; use grated Parmesan in the broth instead if unavailable.

For the Pasta

Mafalda Pasta – Chewy texture that mimics lasagna noodles. Substitute with broken lasagna sheets or any bite-sized pasta.

For the Greens

Fresh Kale – Adds nutrition and texture. Substitute with spinach or Swiss chard.

For Creaminess

Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess; replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

For Sweetness

Brown Sugar – Balances flavors with sweetness; use maple syrup or honey as an alternative.

For Topping

Low Moisture Mozzarella – Key topping for creaminess and stretch. Use shredded Gouda or Fontina for a different cheese flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced sweet onion, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.

Step 2: Add Garlic
Toss in 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. Stir frequently as the aromatic garlic releases its enticing flavor and turns golden. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your butternut squash lasagna soup, making it even more comforting.

Step 3: Incorporate Squash and Seasoning
Add in 1 pound of diced butternut squash along with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the squash begins to caramelize and take on a bit of color, releasing its natural sweetness into the mix.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add a Parmesan rind for extra depth of flavor. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree half of the soup directly in the pot, achieving a creamy consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer part of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. Don’t forget to return the Parmesan rind!

Step 6: Add Pasta
Stir in 8 ounces of mafalda pasta and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes. As the pasta cooks, it will absorb the delectable flavors of the butternut squash lasagna soup, becoming al dente and perfectly chewy.

Step 7: Mix in Greens and Cream
Turn off the heat and fold in 4 cups of fresh chopped kale along with 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir gently until the kale wilts and the soup becomes delightfully creamy, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for balance.

Step 8: Serve with Cheese
Ladle the steaming butternut squash lasagna soup into bowls, topping each serving generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. The warmth of the soup will melt the cheese slightly, creating an irresistibly gooey finish that will leave everyone craving more.

Storage Tips for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.

Freezer: This butternut squash lasagna soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. For quicker defrosting, place the container in a bowl of cold water.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add kale and cream just before serving to keep the greens vibrant and fresh.

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella

Serve this irresistible soup with delightful sides that will elevate your cozy fall dining experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crispy exterior and soft interior of fresh bread complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A classic side filled with crisp romaine, tart dressing, and crunchy croutons adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites offer a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, creating a harmonious balance with the soup’s warmth.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic and topped with Parmesan are a comforting companion, making every bite of the soup even more delightful.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio will enhance the dish’s flavors, bringing a refreshing note to your fall meal.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this sweet and spiced treat provides a perfect end to your meal, echoing the comforting vibes of the soup while offering a delightful contrast in texture.
Savory Herb Quinoa: This fluffy side dish is not only nutritious but its herby profile complements the soup’s flavors without overwhelming them.

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup

Cut Uniformly: Ensure the butternut squash is cut into even pieces for consistent cooking and texture throughout your soup.
Essential Parmesan Rind: Don’t skip the Parmesan rind; it enhances the soup’s flavor profile with a delightful umami punch that elevates every spoonful.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning at the end to perfectly balance the sweetness of the squash with the savory ingredients, ensuring your butternut squash lasagna soup is just right.
Perfectly Creamy: Allow the cream and kale to wilt off the heat. This keeps the greens vibrant while adding a lovely creaminess without overcooking.
Pasta Swap: If you’re short on mafalda pasta, feel free to use broken lasagna sheets instead; just ensure they’re bite-sized for the perfect soup consistency.

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful soup; your kitchen is your canvas!

Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced carrots or zucchini alongside the squash for added nutrition and texture. The more, the merrier; let those vibrant colors shine!
Protein-Packed: Add cooked Italian sausage or white beans for a heartier version. This change transforms the soup into a filling meal that is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Creamy Lighter Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter take while still keeping that luscious texture. Sometimes, a little twist can make all the difference!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to keep things rich and creamy without dairy. This way, everyone can indulge in this delightful bowl of comfort!
Spice it Up: If you like it hot, add a bit of diced jalapeño or extra red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat to your liking and make it your own fiery creation!
Alternative Greens: Swap kale for fresh spinach or even Swiss chard. These greens will add a whole new layer of flavor while keeping the soup’s charm intact.
Flavor Swap: Replace Italian seasoning with a mix of smoked paprika and cumin for a warm, smoky flavor profile. This twist takes your soup on a different delicious journey you won’t forget!
Pasta Substitution: If mafalda pasta is hard to find, use broken lasagna sheets or any small pasta you love. With so many options, there’s no excuse not to whip this up!

Ready for more ideas? You might love how this soup pairs beautifully with a fresh side like a Green Chile Soup or a hearty Pot Lasagna Soup. Dive in and make it yours!

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella is perfect for busy home cooks who love the convenience of meal prep! You can prepare the soup base up to 24 hours in advance; simply sauté the aromatics, add the butternut squash, and pour in the broth. Let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simmer the soup, stir in the mafalda pasta, and cook until tender. Finally, add kale and cream right before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy hearty comfort food with minimal effort on hectic weeknights!

Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup with Kale & Mozzarella Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, choose ones that are heavy for their size with a dull, matte skin. Avoid squash with blemishes or dark spots, which may indicate spoilage. The rind should feel firm, and choose a squash with a long neck for more flesh and less seeds.

How should I store leftovers of the butternut squash lasagna soup?
After you’ve savored your delicious butternut squash lasagna soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain that lovely creamy texture we all adore.

Can I freeze butternut squash lasagna soup?
Yes! This comforting soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it has cooled completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. When freezing, leave a bit of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, or for a quick method, submerge the container in a bowl of cold water.

What should I do if my soup is too sweet?
If your soup turns out too sweet, don’t fret! You can balance the flavor by adding acidity. A splash of lemon juice or a bit of vinegar will help cut through the sweetness nicely. You might also consider adding more broth or salt to adjust the flavor to your liking.

Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This butternut squash lasagna soup is vegetarian-friendly, and it can easily adapt for specific dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the topping. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens to ensure safety for everyone at the table.

Can I prep this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this butternut squash lasagna soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooking, and only add the kale and cream before serving. This will keep the greens vibrant and fresh, while still allowing you to enjoy that comforting flavor on a busy day!