Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a warm and cozy dish that combines all the delicious flavors of lasagna in a simple soup form. It’s packed with layers of gooey cheese, hearty beef, and comforting noodles!
The best part? You just toss everything in the crockpot and let it simmer. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love less cooking time and more taste? 😉 Pair it with some bread, and you’ve got a perfect meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in your soup. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, substitute it with lentils or mushrooms.
Onion & Garlic: They add essential flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work in a pinch. I also love using shallots for a milder taste.
Crushed & Diced Tomatoes: These form the base of your soup. If you don’t have canned tomatoes, fresh tomatoes (about 6-8 medium) chopped can be used instead. Look for fire-roasted varieties for a smoky flavor.
Beef Broth: This adds depth. For a lighter soup, use chicken broth. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth will do just fine, too. You can also make your own stock about one day ahead!
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles are ideal, but you can use gluten-free pasta if needed. Just check the cooking time as it may vary.
Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, while mozzarella gives that melty texture. If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese can be an alternative. I love adding a touch of cream cheese for extra richness too!
How Do I Ensure My Noodles Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the noodles directly in the crockpot is easy but requires timing. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Wait until the soup has been cooking for at least 6-7 hours on low before adding the noodles.
- Break the noodles into small pieces to help them cook evenly and fit in the bowl.
- Stir them in and cover the crockpot, cooking for another 30-40 minutes until tender.
- If you prefer firmer noodles, you can cook them separately and add to the soup right before serving.
Try not to leave the noodles in the crockpot too long, or they may become mushy. Enjoy your meal prep—this soup is made for cozy nights!
Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
- For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Estimated Time Needed:
This delicious Crockpot Lasagna Soup takes about 15-20 minutes for prep and cooking is done for you! You’ll be looking at around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. So, just set it and forget it until meal time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat Mixture:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef together with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally and cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion has softened. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Transfer the beef mixture into your crockpot. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using it), and season with salt and black pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything well!
3. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let the mixture cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking will let all the lovely flavors meld together.
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 to 40 minutes before you plan to serve, break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup. Cover and let it cook until the noodles are tender.
5. Stir in the Cheeses:
Right before serving, stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until everything is melted and creamy. For a beautiful presentation, you can also add a dollop of ricotta on top of each serving instead!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Pair it with some crusty bread or garlic bread for a cozy meal!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy Crockpot Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to season it well, as it can be less flavorful on its own.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese works as a substitute. Some people even enjoy using cream cheese for extra creaminess in this soup! Just stir it in when you add the other cheeses at the end.
Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta. Ensure the cooking time is checked as it may vary based on the type of gluten-free pasta you use.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen the soup if it thickens up.