Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Short introduction (what it is and why)

Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that delivers all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, cozy soup. This version is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and requires no boiling of noodles. Simply layer in the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you!

Why you’ll love it

• Convenient Cooking: Forget about boiling noodles! This recipe uses dry lasagna noodles that cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
• Flavorful: The combination of beef, marinara, and Italian seasonings creates a rich, savory flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Customize the soup with your favorite ingredients or swap in alternative options depending on dietary needs.
• Easy Cleanup: With fewer pots and pans to wash, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 to 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 to 25 oz) or 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning plus 0.5 tsp dried basil
• 0.5 tsp kosher salt (then more to taste)
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• Small pinch sugar or tiny pinch baking soda to balance acidity if needed
• 8 to 10 dry lasagna noodles (broken into 1 to 2 inch pieces, about 6 to 8 oz)
• 0.75 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper (optional for added heat)
• 0.5 cup cream (for a creamy white version, replace some broth)

Substitutions & key variations

• Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for a healthy twist.
• Broth: Choose vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or use low-sodium varieties to control salt levels.
• Cheese: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
• Veggies: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Step-by-step

Step 1

Begin by browning the ground meat with diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until the meat is fully browned, then drain any excess fat.

Step 2

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Transfer the meat mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 3

Add the broth, marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.

Step 4

Cook the soup on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the base smells rich and flavorful.

Step 5

If you’re cooking on LOW, switch to HIGH and add the broken lasagna noodles, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes on HIGH or 35 to 40 minutes on LOW until the noodles are al dente.

Step 6

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in baby spinach if you’re using it. This adds color and nutrition to your soup.

Step 7

Finally, swirl in the ricotta or cottage cheese, and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Cover for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese melts. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Success tips

• Temperature: Make sure your slow cooker is on the right setting; if you need to switch from LOW to HIGH, do so to ensure the noodles cook properly.
• Texture: If the soup is too thick, add a little extra broth to achieve your desired consistency.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the noodles by checking their doneness periodically.

How to serve

Ladle the Crockpot Lasagna Soup into bowls and serve hot. Each bowl can be garnished with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage & reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm on the stove over medium heat until heated thoroughly. You may need to add a bit more broth during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
Using gluten-free lasagna noodles will make this dish gluten-free. Always check labels for gluten-containing ingredients.

3. Can I freeze Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

4. What can I do with leftovers?
Use leftovers to create a delicious pasta bake. Simply transfer the soup to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake in the oven until bubbly.

Nutrition notes / equivalents

This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a hearty meal with balanced protein from the meat and nutritious vegetables. Each serving can be packed with vitamins and minerals, especially if you include spinach and alternative vegetables.

Conclusion + CTA

Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a simple yet delicious meal that makes dinnertime easy and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to please. Don’t forget to try it out this week and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Links to related recipes

• One-Pot Spaghetti
• Slow Cooker Beef Stew
• Cheesy Vegetable Soup