This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a warm and hearty dish filled with flavors you love! With pasta, meat, and gooey cheese, it’s like a big bowl of comfort on a chilly day.
The best part? You just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax! I like to top mine with extra cheese—it’s like a tasty party in my bowl. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: These provide a rich flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Marinara Sauce: This is key for flavor. If you’re out, any pasta sauce will work. You can also make your own using canned tomatoes and Italian herbs!
Diced Tomatoes: The juice adds depth. If you’re looking for less acidity, you can use fresh tomatoes or leave them out altogether, though it may alter the texture slightly.
Lasagna Noodles: Uncooked broken noodles go directly into the soup. You could use any short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli as a great alternative.
Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan add creaminess and flavor. Cottage cheese can be a good substitute for ricotta, and any melting cheese can replace mozzarella.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Soup Consistency?
A common question is about the soup’s thickness. To enhance the consistency, the timing of adding the lasagna noodles is crucial. Make sure to add them about 30 minutes before you plan to serve.
- This gives the noodles just enough time to cook while ensuring they don’t overcook and become mushy.
- Also, consider the amount of broth; you can add more or reduce it based on how hearty you want your soup to be.
- If your soup is too thick for your liking, just stir in some extra broth or water at the end to reach your desired consistency.
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz uncooked broken lasagna noodles or broken lasagna-style pasta
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time plus 6-7 hours for slow cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. You’ll have a delicious soup ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion has softened. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked meat mixture into your crockpot. Pour in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste, then give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Slow Cook the Soup:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Let the delicious aromas fill your kitchen as it cooks!
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the uncooked broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Stir them in and cover again, letting them cook until they’re tender.
5. Top with Cheese:
After turning off the crockpot, add dollops of ricotta cheese on top and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over everything. Let the cheese melt for a few minutes, creating a creamy, cheesy layer!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the lasagna soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Enjoy warm!
This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup captures all the flavors of classic lasagna in a cozy soup form, perfect for an effortless meal! Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative. Just cook it the same way as you would with beef or sausage for delicious results.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a tasty substitute. Just blend it a bit to get a smoother texture if you prefer!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully! Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the lasagna soup! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
