This yummy Crockpot Lasagna Soup combines all the flavors of lasagna in a cozy, warm bowl! With layers of noodles, cheese, and rich tomato sauce, it’s simple and hearty.
Making this soup is super easy—just toss everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work! I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for chilly nights! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Use any ground meat you like! Turkey or chicken are great lower-fat options. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled tempeh or lentils.
Marinara Sauce: I prefer a smooth marinara for this soup, but you can use any jarred pasta sauce. If you have homemade sauce, even better! You can also substitute with a combination of crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These really make it easy! If you can’t find them, regular lasagna noodles will work, just break them into pieces. Cook them separately and add them in during the last 10 minutes if you prefer.
Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan: Cheese is key for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, cottage cheese can work in place of ricotta. Use any melty cheese you prefer for the topping.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Crockpot Soup?
Creating a rich flavor is crucial, and it’s easier than you think! Browning the meat with onions and garlic first is a game-changer. This step adds depth to your soup.
- Cook the meat in your skillet until browned, ensuring it has some good, crusty bits for flavor.
- Don’t forget to scrape the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift those tasty brown bits into your soup.
- Mixing in the cheese towards the end keeps them creamy and prevents them from breaking down too much.
By following these steps, your lasagna soup will be packed with flavor and super satisfying!
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce or pasta sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Noodles and Cheese:
- 8 ounces no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus 5-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in the Crockpot. You’ll spend a few minutes browning the meat and then let the Crockpot work its magic. Relax while you wait for the wonderful smells to fill your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, diced onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Move to the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked meat mixture into your Crockpot. This forms the tasty base of your soup!
3. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to mix well. It already smells great!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover your Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This is when the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles to the Crockpot. Stir them in well to ensure they get submerged in the broth.
6. Final Cooking:
Cover again and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on the soup, so it doesn’t overflow!
7. Stir in the Ricotta:
Once the noodles are cooked, gently stir in the ricotta cheese. This adds a creamy, delicious element that makes the soup feel extra special.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish up the soup hot, and don’t forget to top it with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and fresh basil or parsley if you like. Serve with some crusty bread on the side for dipping, and enjoy your hearty, homemade lasagna soup!
This recipe captures the essence of classic lasagna flavors in a warm, comforting soup that’s effortless to make in your Crockpot. Enjoy every spoonful!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef or sausage. You may want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor since turkey is milder.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian lasagna soup, replace the meat with lentils or about 2 cups of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add extra beans for protein!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop.
What Should I Serve with Lasagna Soup?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad, or garlic bread to complement the flavors of the soup. It’s a complete meal on its own, but those sides add a nice touch!
