Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
  3. Stir in the grated carrot and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Cook the Broth Base

  1. Pour the broth into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil.
  2. Add the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Broccoli

  1. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the boiling broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. After 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the noodles and broccoli are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Make It Cheesy

  1. Lower the heat to medium-low to prevent curdling.
  2. Stir in the milk, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using). Add the cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t clump.

Step 6: Adjust the Consistency

  1. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  2. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a colorful and flavorful finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Lasagna Soup

  1. Choose Quality Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
  2. Cook Noodles Separately (Optional): If you plan to save leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual servings to prevent them from absorbing too much liquid.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Adding the broccoli halfway through ensures it retains its bright green color and a slight crunch.

Variations

  1. Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or Italian sausage for a heartier soup.
  2. Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
  3. Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based garnishes.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.