This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It mixes pasta, tangy tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness all cooked slowly to perfection.
I love how this soup is super simple. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work! Plus, who can resist that melty cheese on top? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds richness to your soup. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. Vegetarian? Try using lentils or a meat substitute for a plant-based version.
Onion: Diced onions bring great flavor. You can swap for shallots or even leeks if you prefer a milder taste. For a shortcut, use onion powder if you’re short on time!
Pasta: Traditional lasagna noodles give that authentic feel. You can use any pasta you have on hand—penne or fusilli work well too! Just make sure to break them into smaller pieces.
Cheeses: Ricotta cheese is a must for the classic lasagna vibe, but you can use cottage cheese if that’s what you have. For a different twist, trying using creamy goat cheese adds a lovely flavor!
How Do I Cook Noodles Perfectly in a Crockpot?
Cooking noodles in a crockpot can be tricky, but here’s how to get them just right:
- **Timing is Key:** Add the noodles about 30 minutes before you plan to serve the soup. This helps them cook without getting mushy.
- **Ensure Enough Liquid:** Stir the noodles into the soup and make sure they’re completely submerged. This helps them cook evenly.
- **Check Doneness:** After 20-30 minutes, taste a piece of noodle to see if it’s tender. Cook a little longer if needed, but watch carefully.
Following these tips will help your lasagna soup turn out perfect every time!
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup will take about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let the crockpot do the cooking. It will simmer for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Just add the pasta about 30 minutes before serving and you’re all set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and diced onion together for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat, so your soup isn’t greasy!
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your soup.
3. Mix It in the Crockpot:
Now comes the fun part! Transfer the beef and onion mixture into your crockpot. Add in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking will really enhance the flavors.
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle in the broken lasagna noodles. Stir them into the soup, making sure they’re well covered with the delicious liquid.
6. Cook Until Tender:
Continue cooking on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are nice and tender. This is where the magic of lasagna soup happens!
7. Stir in the Cheeses:
Turn off the crockpot and gently mix in dollops of ricotta cheese throughout the soup. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan on top. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese for extra creaminess.
8. Serve & Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh basil or parsley if you like. This adds a beautiful touch and a bit of freshness!
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve immediately and dive into the comforting flavors of lasagna in a warm, cozy soup. You’re going to love it!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just be mindful that turkey can be a bit drier, so consider adding a splash of broth if you notice the soup is getting too thick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also sneak in more veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition!
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This lasagna soup pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a simple side salad. It’s a comforting meal on its own, but these sides are a great addition for a more complete dinner experience!
