Name: Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484742H26M6S
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil (optional, for garnis

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love lasagna but prefer a more convenient, less time-consuming option, then Crockpot Lasagna Soup is the perfect recipe for you. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you go about your day. It’s flavorful, filling, and comforting – just like a classic lasagna but in soup form. The combination of savory tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s customizable to your taste with plenty of room for variations!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Transfer the beef mixture to the Crockpot and add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup. Stir to combine.
Once the noodles are cooked, add the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)

Variations

Ground turkey or chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the soup a little kick.
Add-ins: Feel free to add spinach, kale, or any other leafy greens for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra broth or water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. You can also use gluten-free pasta or rice if preferred.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the Crockpot insert in the fridge the night before. In the morning, just set the insert into the slow cooker base and cook as directed.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use fresh lasagna noodles?

Fresh lasagna noodles can be used, but they will cook more quickly. You may want to add them towards the last 20 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

No, this recipe contains cheese. However, you can substitute the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives to make it dairy-free.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought marinara sauce for the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce if you’re looking for an easier option.

How do I make the soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, you can add more ricotta cheese or stir in a bit of heavy cream toward the end of cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe if you’re serving a larger group. Just make sure your Crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a slice of crusty Italian bread for dipping.

Conclusion

Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a quick, easy, and comforting dish that brings all the flavors of lasagna without the hassle. With minimal prep time and the magic of the slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone craving a warm, filling meal. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy a bowl of hearty soup with the taste of lasagna in every bite!