This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a warm bowl of goodness! It’s filled with pasta, hearty meat, and rich tomato sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. What’s not to love?
Honestly, it feels like enjoying lasagna without the fuss! I love ladling it into bowls and topping with gooey cheese. It’s a cozy meal that also saves me time in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. They offer great flavor without too much fat. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based crumbles instead!
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles work well, but you can also use gluten-free or whole grain options. If you want to skip the noodles, add some chopped zucchini to keep it hearty!
Marinara Sauce: Any store-bought marinara is fine, but homemade is even better! You could substitute it with a tomato sauce mixed with Italian herbs if that’s what you have on hand.
Cheese: While ricotta gives a lovely creaminess, cottage cheese can be a good substitute here. For monks or vegans, look for dairy-free mozzarella and ricotta options!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Soup?
Building flavor is key to this recipe! Start by browning the ground beef and onion together. This step enhances taste through caramelization. Don’t skip the garlic – adding it last helps maintain its fresh flavor!
- Use high-quality marinara sauce to make a big difference. A rich and flavorful sauce elevates your soup!
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving. A dash of extra salt or Italian herbs can really brighten the dish.
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients:
- Meat & Aromatics:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Base Ingredients:
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or spaghetti sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- Pasta & Seasonings:
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cheese:
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. After adding the lasagna noodles, it will need an additional 30 minutes to cook until tender. Total time is approximately 7 hours or less, but the hands-on time is very minimal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat and Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, and the onions have softened, around 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This boosts the flavor and aroma!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your crockpot. Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, and diced tomatoes (including their juice). Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, letting all those delicious flavors meld together.
5. Add Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Give it a good stir, cover again, and continue cooking until the noodles are tender.
6. Stir in Cheese:
Once the noodles are cooked, gently stir in the ricotta cheese until it’s all incorporated and creamy.
7. Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. If you like, add a garnish of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of flavor and color.
8. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your comforting crockpot lasagna soup with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will still provide great flavor. Just be sure to brown and drain it in the same way as the ground beef.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This lasagna soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top right before serving adds a lovely touch!
