This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With layers of pasta, cheese, and hearty meat, it brings all the flavors of lasagna without the fuss.
Throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic! I love having leftovers for lunch—it’s even better the next day. Who doesn’t enjoy easy, cheesy days? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both are great for flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if you’re going vegetarian!
Diced Onion: Onions are sweet and aromatic when cooked. If you’re allergic or want to skip them, try using shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a pungent kick. In a pinch, you could use garlic powder—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove. Keep in mind, fresh is always best!
Lasagna Noodles: I break them up for soup, but you can use any pasta! Spinach or zucchini noodles are nice gluten-free options that also add extra veggies.
Cheeses: Ricotta is classic, but cream cheese or cottage cheese can also work well. For a twist, mix in some goat cheese for tang!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Soup in a Crockpot?
Cooking in a crockpot is super easy, but there are a few tricks to get everything just right! First, browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this!
- Cook the meat until browned, then drain the fat to keep the soup from getting greasy.
- Add the broth and tomatoes first, then stir in the herbs and spices. This helps the flavors merge.
- Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes so they stay nice and firm instead of getting mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving — sometimes a bit more salt or pepper makes a big difference!
With these simple tips, you’ll have a delicious and welcoming bowl of lasagna soup ready to enjoy!
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious soup takes about 15 minutes to prep (browning meat and chopping veggies) and then you can let your crockpot work its magic for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep your soup nice and light.
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your crockpot. Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
3. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir the broken lasagna noodles into the soup. Let them cook until they’re tender—this adds a lovely heartiness to your dish.
5. Stir in the Cheeses:
Just before serving, mix in the ricotta cheese for that creamy texture. If you want to add some ricotta on top of the soup for extra decadence, reserve a spoonful for later!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a dollop of ricotta if you saved some. Top with fresh chopped basil or parsley for that burst of freshness!
7. Dig In:
Serve hot alongside some garlic bread or crusty bread for a yummy meal. Enjoy the comforting warmth of your creamy, cheesy Crockpot Lasagna Soup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for beef or Italian sausage. Just ensure to season it well, as it has a milder flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the meat with a mix of your favorite veggies (like bell peppers and mushrooms) and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also toss in some plant-based sausage for a heartier option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of broth to loosen the soup if it thickens.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Definitely! This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
