If you adore the comforting flavors of lasagna but want something quicker and cozy to enjoy, this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is absolute magic in a bowl. Imagine the rich, meaty tomato sauce mingling with tender noodles and gooey cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. It captures everything you love about traditional lasagna with a fraction of the fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a new favorite that invites warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but come together to create layers of flavor and texture that make this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe truly exceptional. Each item plays a crucial role, from the savory ground beef adding depth, to the fresh herbs that bring fragrant hints of Italy right into your kitchen.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides hearty, savory protein that forms the soup’s meaty base.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and lovely aromatic depth when softened.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers a punch of warm, flavorful zest essential for Italian dishes.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): The rich tomato sauce backbone that’s tangy and comforting.
- Beef broth (4 cups): Creates the perfect savory liquid for simmering and softening noodles.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers fresh, herbaceous notes that brighten the soup.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Complements the basil with its earthy and slightly bitter undertone.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat for those who love a little spice.
- Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup): Gives creaminess and a luscious texture when stirred in last.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully on top, providing that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Lasagna noodles (8, broken into pieces): Replace traditional sheets, making it easier to eat while still delivering classic flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef. This step is key because it creates beautifully caramelized bits that deepen the soup’s flavor. After the meat is cooked through and no longer pink, drain any excess fat so your soup stays rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef over to your slow cooker and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Give everything a good stir to mix all the aromas and flavors together. This is where the magic starts to meld and intensify.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours for a wonderfully developed taste or speed it up by cooking on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow, gentle heat melds those robust flavors in a way the stove can’t quite replicate, resulting in soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
Step 4: Add the Lasagna Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, toss in the broken lasagna noodles. They’ll absorb the broth without becoming mushy and maintain their toothsome bite — just like traditional lasagna pasta should.
Step 5: Stir in Cheeses and Season
Right before serving, fold in the ricotta and mozzarella cheese so they melt into creamy, cheesy goodness throughout the soup. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. This last step elevates the dish, bringing that classic lasagna richness to every spoonful.
How to Serve Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a bright green pop of color and freshness. A big dollop of extra ricotta adds a luscious creaminess that guests will adore. If you enjoy some crunch, toasted garlic bread on the side complements the soup beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple Caesar salad adds refreshing contrast and extra veggies to the table. Garlic knots or cheesy focaccia bread are indulgent sides that echo the Italian flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls or even small mini-crock pots for a charming presentation if you’re entertaining. For a fun twist, turn it into a lasagna “dip” by thickening the soup and serving with breadsticks or toasted baguette slices. Either way, it’s impossible not to smile while enjoying this cozy delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe, let the leftovers cool completely and transfer them to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, this soup stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making lunches or quick dinners a breeze.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, perfect for planning ahead. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. When frozen, it can last up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water helps bring back that perfect soup-like consistency. You can also microwave leftovers in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
FAQs
Can I make this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out ground beef for mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the hearty flavor without the meat.
What type of lasagna noodles should I use?
Regular dried lasagna noodles work best when broken into pieces. Avoid fresh noodles as they may become too soft and mushy during slow cooking.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them in the slow cooker insert. Just add the noodles and cheeses when you’re ready to cook or shortly before serving.
Is it okay to skip the ricotta cheese?
While ricotta adds creaminess and authenticity, you can leave it out or substitute with cream cheese or mascarpone if you prefer a slightly different texture.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make it?
Just a subtle kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can omit the red pepper flakes altogether or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is the perfect necklace of cozy comfort and deliciousness all in one bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a quiet night in, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour. I encourage you to give it a try—you’re going to love the rich flavors and effortless charm it brings to your dinner table.
Print
Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Crock Pot Lasagna Soup combines all the flavors of classic lasagna into a comforting and easy-to-make slow cooker soup. Ground beef, aromatic herbs, and crushed tomatoes meld with tender lasagna noodles and creamy cheeses to create a rich, satisfying dish perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
Herbs and 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 Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together to combine the flavors evenly.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook the mixture on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Lasagna Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup. This timing ensures the noodles cook through but don’t become mushy.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Just before serving, stir in the ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella until creamy and well incorporated. Taste and season the soup with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- To make it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Lasagna noodles can be replaced with any pasta shape you prefer but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, lessen the amount of beef broth or cook uncovered for the final 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
