This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is like your favorite lasagna but in a cozy, soupy form! It’s loaded with pasta, meat, and cheesy goodness, all cooked slowly until bubbly.
What I love is that it practically cooks itself! Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot, and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days when you want something warm and filling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: I like to use ground beef for a classic flavor, but Italian sausage adds great spice. If you’re keeping it lighter, ground turkey or chicken can work too!
Marinara Sauce: A good jar of marinara makes this dish easy. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs!
Broth: Beef broth is ideal for a richer taste, but chicken or vegetable broth works well if you want a milder flavor. You can also use water in a pinch.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, cottage cheese can be a good stand-in. Or skip it entirely for a dairy-free version!
Lasagna Noodles: I love using mini noodles because they cook up perfectly. If they’re not available, any pasta shape you have on hand will do. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re tender.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Lasagna Noodles in the Soup?
Cooking the noodles in the soup can be tricky since it’s easy to overcook them. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir uncooked noodles into the soup.
- Cover the crockpot and let it cook on high for the remaining time until the noodles are just tender, checking occasionally.
- Keep in mind that the noodles will continue to cook slightly after you turn off the crockpot, so it’s better to start them a bit earlier.
This way, you avoid mushy noodles and keep that nice texture in your soup!
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or your favorite pasta sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) uncooked mini lasagna noodles or broken lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 5-6 hours of cooking on low or 3 hours on high in the crockpot. After you toss everything in, it’s smooth sailing until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the chopped onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are soft—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat for a leaner soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant. Then, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Transfer the meat mixture into your crockpot. Pour in that delicious marinara sauce and beef broth, then sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Season with salt and pepper, and give it a good stir to mix everything together.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot, and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The longer, the better, as the flavors meld beautifully during cooking!
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, gently stir the uncooked lasagna noodles into the soup. Cover again and let them cook until they’re tender, which should take just a little while.
6. Stir in the Cheeses:
Just before serving, mix in the creamy ricotta cheese, which makes the soup wonderfully rich and comforting.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle plenty of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top. Don’t forget to add a pinch of fresh basil or parsley for that perfect finishing touch. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful and hearty crockpot lasagna soup!
This soup captures all the amazing flavors of lasagna but with the ease and comfort of a cozy soup. Perfect for family dinners and those busy nights!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles add more fiber, and gluten-free noodles can be used for a gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different types may require slightly different cooking durations.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a variety of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also use lentils or plant-based sausage for added protein. Additionally, ensure your marinara sauce is vegetarian-friendly!
Can I Store Leftovers? How Long Do They Last?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can This Recipe Be Frozen?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
These FAQs should help address some common concerns and make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable!
