If you adore all the comforting flavors of lasagna but crave something quicker and heartwarming, this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is going to be your new go-to! Imagine the rich, savory goodness of tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, fragrant Italian herbs, and creamy cheeses all melded together in a luscious, bubbling pot of soup. This dish captures the essence of classic lasagna in a wonderfully cozy bowl, bringing a soul-satisfying meal to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a dish that feels like a big, delicious hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creating that perfect balance of hearty, cheesy, and aromatic that makes this soup incredibly inviting.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base for the soup’s depth and texture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle savory crunch once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with mouthwatering fragrant notes that awaken your appetite.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Creates a luscious tomato foundation with a perfect tang and body.
- 4 cups beef broth: Adds heartiness and intensifies the meaty flavor in the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings that classic Italian herb brightness, a signature in lasagna flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements basil with earthiness and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a subtle hint of heat to balance richness if you like a bit of a kick.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Swirled in at the end for creamy indulgence and smooth texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible cheesy finish.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Turns the soup into a filling meal with pasta comfort in every spoonful.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned, around 6 to 8 minutes. This step develops a deep, savory flavor base. Be sure to drain off any excess fat so your soup doesn’t turn greasy—this keeps the broth clear and clean-tasting.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Next, transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Give everything a good stir to blend all those wonderful flavors together before cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Develop Flavor
Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen by cooking on low for 6 to 7 hours, or, if you’re short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer lets the herbs, tomatoes, and beef meld into a rich, comforting broth that’s just bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Add Pasta for Perfect Texture
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to dig in, toss in the broken lasagna noodles. This timing allows the pasta to cook just enough so they’re tender but still holding their shape, ensuring the soup has that hearty, satisfying bite you expect from lasagna.
Step 5: Finish with Cheeses and Seasoning
Right before serving, stir in the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. These creamy cheeses melt into the hot soup, adding luxurious creaminess and that irresistible gooey cheese pull. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to balance and enhance all the layered flavors.
How to Serve Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe with fresh plate garnishes that add a little extra color and flavor dimension. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley brightens the bowl and adds a fresh herbal contrast. You can also add a dollop of extra ricotta or a handful of shredded parmesan for even more cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crunchy garlic bread turns it into a delightful feast. Garlic bread, especially, is wildly delicious for soaking up every last bit of that savory broth—your spoon won’t just be for the soup anymore!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in rustic bowls with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an eye-catching finish. You could also set out small ramekins with extra toppings like chopped olives, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese, letting your guests customize their bowls and make the experience even more personal and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead comfort meal to enjoy during busy weekdays without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Just leave out the cheese when freezing—add fresh ricotta and mozzarella when reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Then stir in the cheeses and season again if needed. This slow reheating helps maintain that creamy, cheesy consistency without curdling.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic leaner option and will still absorb all the wonderful Italian flavors in the soup. Just be sure to brown it well to develop rich taste.
Do I have to break the lasagna noodles?
Breaking the noodles helps them fit better in the slow cooker and makes the soup easier to eat with a spoon. However, if you prefer longer noodle strands for a different texture, you can leave them whole but may need to adjust cooking time.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or on the stove?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for browning and then pressure cooking the soup. On the stove, simmer the ingredients in a heavy pot for about an hour and add the noodles in the last 15 minutes.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The herbs and cheeses still provide that classic lasagna flavor in a meat-free version.
What are some good toppings for Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe?
Some fantastic toppings include freshly chopped basil, Parmesan cheese, chili flakes for heat, and even a drizzle of good quality olive oil. Crusty bread with butter is also an unbeatable companion to scoop up every last bit.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is the kind of dish that will quickly become a beloved classic in your household. It’s simple to prepare, supremely comforting, and packs all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a cozy, cheesy bowl. Give it a try the next time you want a meal that feels like an embrace, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
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Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Crock Pot Lasagna Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines all the flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, flavorful soup. Ground beef, crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and broken lasagna noodles simmer together to create a rich and satisfying meal, finished with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheese for that perfect lasagna taste in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Tomato Base
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef for about 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the cooked ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to combine the flavors well.
- Cook the soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to develop a rich taste.
- Add lasagna noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they are submerged so they cook evenly in the hot soup.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Just before serving, fold in the ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella, stirring gently to melt the cheeses into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm for a cozy, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you want a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth.
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or pasta.
- Adding fresh basil or oregano at the end can brighten up the flavor.
- Leftovers store well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
