This cozy Slow Cooker White Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tasty vegetables and tender noodles.
Making it is super easy too! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. I like to top mine with extra cheese—because who doesn’t love more cheese? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: Ground Italian sausage adds a delicious flavor, but you can swap it for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, swap with black beans or lentils for a hearty base.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder. About 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of fresh garlic.
Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you prefer, cottage cheese works as a great alternative, just blend it for a smoother texture. For a sharper flavor, try cream cheese instead.
Broth: Chicken broth provides depth, but vegetable broth is a fantastic plant-based alternative. You could even use low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake.
Noodles: Dry egg noodles are traditional, but if you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles as a lighter substitute.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Noodles in My Soup?
Cooking noodles in the slow cooker can be tricky. You want them tender, not mushy. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the uncooked noodles. This timing will cook them just right without overcooking.
- Stir the noodles into the soup to fully incorporate them.
- Keep the slow cooker on high for about 20-30 minutes until they soften.
- Always check them a few minutes early; overcooked noodles can turn to mush.
Slow Cooker White Lasagna Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground Italian sausage or ground chicken/turkey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz (225g) dry egg noodles or broken lasagna noodles
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Crusty or garlic bread (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 6 hours to cook on low or 3 hours on high in your slow cooker. Just a little prep and then you can kick back while it simmers away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle a little olive oil, and add the ground sausage (or chicken/turkey). Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then set the meat aside.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, place the browned meat, minced garlic, and chopped onion. This will form the base of your soup and add great flavor.
3. Pour in the Liquids and Seasoning:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
4. Cook the Soup:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for about 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours. This will make sure your onions are soft and the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Add the Creamy Ingredients:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the uncooked egg noodles, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together well so the creamy goodness spreads throughout.
6. Finish Cooking:
Cover again and cook on high for 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. This last step makes sure everything is perfectly heated and combined.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Make sure to sprinkle on some extra grated Parmesan if you’re feeling cheesy!
9. Enjoy with Bread!
Optional: Pair your creamy soup with some crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. Perfect for dipping!
Your Slow Cooker White Lasagna Soup is ready to enjoy, providing all the comforting flavors of lasagna in a delicious soup form. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the meat first to ensure even cooking. Thaw the ground meat in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Cooking from frozen may lead to uneven textures and flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese blended until smooth is a great alternative. Cream cheese or mascarpone can also add creaminess and flavor if you prefer a richer texture.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, keep in mind the noodles may become softer after freezing and reheating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the meat with a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious veggie version.
