This warm and comforting soup blends creamy ricotta and cheesy goodness into a delightful lasagna experience, all made in your trusty crockpot! Easy peasy!
I love how this dish captures all the flavors of lasagna without the fuss. Just toss everything in, let it cook, and enjoy a cozy meal. Perfect for lazy weekends! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds a hearty touch. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, you could use lentils or mushrooms!
Marinara Sauce: A store-bought marinara saves time. If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own or try a tomato basil blend. Just ensure it’s thick to avoid a watery soup!
Lasagna Noodles: You can use regular lasagna noodles, but gluten-free pasta works too! Just break them up as desired. No noodles on hand? Try using small pasta shapes like shells or even zoodles!
Cheese: Ricotta is classic for that creamy texture. For a lighter option, cottage cheese fits well, but it will have a different flavor. Use any melting cheese you prefer instead of mozzarella.
How Do You Get Creamy Cheese Blended into the Soup?
Mixing in cheeses at the end is key for a creamy finish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Set your crockpot to warm when you’re ready to add cheese.
- Stir in ricotta and mozzarella gently until the cheese starts to melt.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes with the lid on to ensure the cheese is fully incorporated, creamy, and delicious!
This method keeps the cheese smooth and prevents clumping, giving you that rich, velvety texture in every spoonful.
Crockpot Cheesy Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (32 oz) marinara sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Olive oil for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 25 minutes to prep and about 6 hours to cook on low in the crockpot, or 3 hours on high. Don’t forget to add about 30 minutes for the noodles to cook right before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its amazing aroma!
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with a little salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the meat apart as it cooks until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your crockpot. Then, pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Give everything a good stir to combine!
4. Set it to Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. Your kitchen will start to smell incredible!
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the soup, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Stir them in gently, then cover again and let them soak up all those delicious flavors until tender, about 20-30 minutes.
6. Stir in the Cheeses:
Just before you’re ready to dig in, stir in the ricotta and mozzarella cheese into the soup. Mix until the cheeses melt and create a creamy texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to ladle that warm, comforting soup into bowls! Top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if you’d like. Serve hot and savor the delightful flavors of lasagna in a bowl!
This recipe captures the hearty essence of lasagna with meat, tomato, cheese, and pasta, all simplified into a rich, creamy crockpot soup. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option! Just be mindful that it may result in a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the soup hearty and flavorful.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before serving.
