This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with pasta, cheese, and rich tomato flavor, it makes a cozy meal for any night.
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. It’s perfect with some crusty bread. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is what gives the soup its hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken work great too. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled tempeh or lentils.
Lasagna Noodles: I like using no-boil noodles for convenience, but you can use regular lasagna noodles too! Just cook them beforehand and break them up as needed.
Crushed Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: These add a rich base to the soup. You can substitute with fresh tomatoes if desired (about 5-6 medium), but you may need to add some extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
Cheeses: I love the creaminess of ricotta mixed with mozzarella. You can swap ricotta with cottage cheese or skip it if you’re dairy-free; just add more herbs or nutritional yeast for flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Soup?
The key to a flavorful Crockpot Lasagna Soup is in the layering of ingredients. Here’s how to make it rock:
- Brown the meat before adding to the crockpot. This step adds depth and a nice flavor.
- Make sure to sauté the onions and garlic. It helps to release their flavors and gives a nice base to your soup.
- Season well! Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance.
- Let it simmer long enough to meld the flavors together. This is where the crockpot shines, so don’t rush it!
- Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes so they don’t get mushy.
How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into large pieces
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Crockpot Lasagna Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. Just let it simmer slowly to develop all those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. This step adds a lot of flavor!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will create a lovely aromatic base for your soup.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Now it’s time to transfer the cooked beef, onions, and garlic into your crockpot. Add in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let the soup cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours. The longer, the better, as the flavors will deepen and mingle beautifully.
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Stir well to make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the delicious soup broth. Cover again and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to tender perfection.
6. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture will be the highlight of your soup!
7. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and add a generous dollop of the cheese mixture on top of each serving. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for a bright, fresh touch.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in immediately and savor every spoonful! Pair this hearty soup with some crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for ground beef. It will yield a lighter soup, but still delicious. Just follow the same cooking instructions.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tempeh or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Crockpot Lasagna Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What Should I Serve With This Soup?
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or garlic bread makes for a delightful meal!
