Hearty Crockpot Lasagna Soup: A Comforting Classic with a Twist 🍲🍝✨
1. Introduction
Discover the magic of crockpot lasagna soup, a deliciously hearty pasta soup that combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of slow cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe offers an easy, comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a fan of slow cooker lasagna or simply craving a flavorful, filling soup, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
2. Ingredients Needed for Hearty Lasagna Soup
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Preparation of the Ingredients
Start by preparing the ingredients: dice the onion, mince the garlic, and gather all your spices to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Cook the Ground Meat
In a skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then transfer the meat to the crockpot.
Combine Remaining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Add the cooked meat, diced onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes into the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For a quicker version, cook on high for 3-4 hours.
Add the Pasta
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cover. Continue cooking until the noodles are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Almost ready! Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the hot soup. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
4. Tips for Perfect Crockpot Lasagna Soup
- Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Ensure the noodles are broken into small pieces to absorb the flavors better and fit easily in the crockpot.
5. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Allow the hearty pasta soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
6. Serving Suggestions for Lasagna Soup
This easy lasagna soup pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad. For an extra cheesy touch, top with additional mozzarella or sprinkle with crushed red pepper for heat. A glass of red wine complements this hearty dish perfectly.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground meat with vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes. Small shaped pasta like ditalini or penne works well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a slow cooker cook time of 6-8 hours for maximum flavor.
What are some substitutions for beef broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Make cooking even easier with this spacious slow cooker. It’s perfect for preparing entire meals like this hearty lasagna soup without fuss.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Prep your vegetables and herbs quickly and efficiently with this versatile kitchen tool, making your cooking process seamless.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Use high-quality cookware to sauté the meat and prepare ingredients with ease for the best cooking experience.
9. Conclusion
With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy slow cooker preparation, crockpot lasagna soup is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe blends the best of traditional Italian flavors with the convenience of modern slow cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy households. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth and deliciousness that hits all the right spots. For more delicious soup recipes, check out our hearty tomato tortellini soup or explore our comfort food pasta dishes.
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Hearty Crockpot Lasagna Soup
A savory soup combining the flavors of classic lasagna with the convenience of slow cooking. Layers of pasta, cheese, and hearty tomato sauce meld into a comforting meal.
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the ground meat; cook until onions are translucent.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, broken lasagna noodles, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and freshly chopped basil.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or plant-based meat for variety.
- For a creamier soup, add extra ricotta or a splash of heavy cream.
- Make ahead and reheat for quick weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Method: Slow cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 410 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg