As the gentle aroma of simmering tomatoes and Italian herbs fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort envelop me. This is the magic of my Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, a dish that transforms that iconic lasagna experience into a cozy, spoonable delight. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe only requires 15 minutes of prep and then lets the slow cooker do all the hard work—giving you time to unwind or tackle that to-do list. Not only is it soul-warming and satisfying, but it’s also a great way to please a crowd or stash some away for those chilly days ahead. Are you ready to turn classic lasagna into a heartwarming soup that may just become your new comfort food favorite?
Why is this soup so irresistible?
Comforting flavors make this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup a standout choice for cozy evenings. Minimal prep is all it takes—just 15 minutes of your time! Slow-cooked goodness melds perfectly as the rich, meaty broth fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. Versatile and satisfying, this dish suits both family dinners and meal preps. Plus, don’t forget to check out our make-ahead tips to enjoy it even on the busiest of nights!
Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor-packed dish!
For the Soup Base
• Ground beef – A hearty protein that gives depth to our Crock Pot Lasagna Soup.
• Beef broth – Adds rich flavor and moisture to the soup.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste and aroma.
• Diced tomatoes – Provide acidity and a fresh burst of flavor.
For the Pasta
• Lasagna noodles – Break them into smaller pieces for that classic lasagna experience in a spoonable form.
For the Creaminess
• Ricotta cheese – Offers a creamy texture and classic Italian flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top, creating a delicious, gooey finish!
Embrace the warmth of homemade goodness and let this easy, comforting Crock Pot Lasagna Soup become a staple in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring it's evenly browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your slow cooker. This hearty base sets the stage for your delicious Crock Pot Lasagna Soup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add 4 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and 2 cups of diced tomatoes to the slow cooker with the browned beef. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, creating a rich and aromatic broth. Set your slow cooker to low and let this mixture simmer for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir them into the slow cooker. This step helps the noodles soften perfectly while soaking up the flavorful broth. Make sure the noodles are submerged in the broth for even cooking, transforming your soup into a comforting, lasagna-inspired delight.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses
Once the noodles are tender, it's time to add some creaminess to your Crock Pot Lasagna Soup. Stir in 2 cups of ricotta cheese and half of the 2 cups of mozzarella cheese until well blended. Allow them to mix thoroughly with the soup for that classic lasagna flavor, making it irresistibly creamy and satisfying.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls while it's hot, garnishing each serving with the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. As it melts from the warmth of the soup, it creates a gooey and inviting finish. Enjoy your comforting Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, perfect for cozy evenings with family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Lasagna Soup is perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time while enjoying a heartwarming meal! You can prepare the soup base (ground beef, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and diced tomatoes) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine these ingredients in your slow cooker and refrigerate until you're ready to cook. When you're ready to serve, set the slow cooker to low for 4-6 hours, breaking the lasagna noodles into pieces and adding them during the last 30 minutes. To maintain quality, keep the cheeses separate until just before serving, stirring them in at the end for a creamy finish. This way, you'll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort, perfect for those hectic weeknights!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Lasagna Soup
As you dip your spoon into a steaming bowl, it's easy to imagine a complete meal that enhances the cozy experience of your hearty soup.
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Garlic Bread: The warmth and crunch of garlic bread provide a delightful contrast, making it perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
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Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing palate cleanser, balancing out the richness of the lasagna soup beautifully.
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Steamed Vegetables: Opt for colorful steamed broccoli or green beans. Their bright flavors and textures add a healthy touch to this savory dish.
Enjoying a classic comfort food experience, consider pairing your meal with a glass of red wine and a light dessert, such as a fruit sorbet, for a sweet ending.
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Chocolate Brownies: A rich, fudgy brownie elevates the meal's indulgence, rounding off the evening perfectly after the warmth of the soup.
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Italian Red Wine: A robust Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the beef broth and Italian seasoning.
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Cheesy Garlic Knots: These pull-apart delights add an extra touch of flavor and fun. The gooey cheese and garlic make them irresistible alongside the soup.
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain texture.
Quality Check: For the best taste, consume your frozen soup within 3 months. After that, it may still be safe but the flavors might diminish.
Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own tasty twist on this comforting dish!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta and mozzarella with cashew cheese or a vegan alternative for a creamy base.
- Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils to create a hearty, meatless version. It's robust and satisfying!
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty kick. The added heat complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Gluten-Free: Replace lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a lighter option that still feels indulgent.
- Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil or parsley before serving to elevate the flavor and add a burst of freshness.
- Hearty Add-In: Toss in cannellini beans or chickpeas to increase protein and add texture to your soup. They make a wonderful addition!
- Broth Swap: Use chicken broth instead of beef for a lighter flavor profile that still remains comforting and rich.
- Creamy Variation: Replace half of the beef broth with heavy cream for an ultra-creamy, decadent version that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Whichever variation you choose, don’t forget to check out our make-ahead tips and serving suggestions for a well-rounded meal!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Lasagna Soup
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Right Noodle Size: Use lasagna noodles, but break them into smaller pieces. This helps them soften properly without becoming mushy in your Crock Pot Lasagna Soup.
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Layering Flavors: Sear the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This extra step deepens the flavor and gives a delicious richness to the soup.
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Cheesy Goodness: Don’t skip adding the ricotta cheese! It creates a creamy texture that enhances your Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, making it feel indulgent and satisfying.
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Don’t Overcook: Set your slow cooker to low for the best results. Cooking on high can overcook the noodles and affect the soup's texture.
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Storage Savvy: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the flavors and textures!
Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the soup?
I recommend using 80/20 ground beef as it provides the perfect balance of flavor and richness without being overly greasy. Depending on your preference, you could also use leaner options like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
How should I store leftover Crock Pot Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! After letting it cool, transfer your leftover soup to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, I often label the container with the date, so I know when to enjoy it!
Can I freeze Crock Pot Lasagna Soup?
Yes! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Be sure to leave some room for expansion as it freezes. This soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave.
What should I do if the noodles are mushy after cooking?
If your noodles end up mushy, it could be due to cooking them for too long or not adding them at the right time. I recommend breaking the noodles into smaller pieces and adding them only in the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid this issue. Remember, slow cookers vary in temperature, so keep an eye on how your particular model cooks!
Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily customize the Crock Pot Lasagna Soup to suit different dietary needs. For gluten-free requirements, substitute traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free noodles or zucchini noodles. To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth while adding in beans or additional vegetables for extra protein. If you have cheese allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives!
Irresistible Crock Pot Lasagna Soup for Cozy Evenings
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- large skillet
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground beef browned
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
For the Pasta
- 1 package lasagna noodles broken into smaller pieces
For the Creaminess
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese divided
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring it's evenly browned. Drain excess fat and transfer to your slow cooker.
- Add beef broth, Italian seasoning, and diced tomatoes to the slow cooker with the browned beef. Stir gently to combine, then set your slow cooker to low for 4 to 6 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir into the slow cooker.
- Once the noodles are tender, stir in ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until well blended.
- Ladle soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
