Crockpot Lasagna Soup
A Cozy Crockpot Classic
Crockpot lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food, marrying the classic flavors of lasagna with the ease of a one-pot meal. Unlike traditional lasagna, which can take hours to prepare and bake, this soup is effortlessly made in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want to enjoy a hearty meal without standing over the stove. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both children and adults alike!
"I made this for family dinner, and everyone was asking for seconds! The flavors are amazing, and it’s so easy to make!" — Sarah, home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for a busy lifestyle. It’s budget-friendly, as it uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The recipe can easily feed a large family, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or family brunches. What’s more, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences.
Additionally, cooking this dish in a crockpot allows all the flavors to meld beautifully over time, creating an authentic Italian taste that feels both homemade and comforting.
Preparing Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Creating this lasagna soup is a straightforward process that brings the rich flavors of Italian cuisine to your kitchen. You’ll start by browning the meat and aromatics in a skillet, which enhances their flavors. Then, the ingredients are combined in a crockpot for effortless cooking. Just let it simmer away while you tackle other tasks, then stir in creamy cheeses right before serving for that perfect lasagna finish.
What You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for this recipe is a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (ziti or fusilli work great)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain off any excess fat.
- In your crockpot, combine the meat mixture with the crushed tomatoes, broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the mixture on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the pasta is tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy the hearty goodness of this lasagna soup!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving crockpot lasagna soup is effortless, but a few thoughtful touches can elevate your dish. Consider pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a simple side salad for a balanced meal. You can also sprinkle extra cheese or red pepper flakes on top for additional flavor.
Don’t forget to serve it in deep bowls to catch all that delicious broth!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Great news—this soup holds up wonderfully in the fridge and even freezes well for later!
- To Store: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- To Reheat: Gently heat the soup in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it feels too thick.
- For Freezing: Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few handy tips to ensure your lasagna soup turns out perfectly:
- Don’t skip browning the meat! This step adds a depth of flavor that makes a big difference.
- Adjust the pasta quantity based on your preference. Less pasta will yield a soupier result, while more will result in a thicker consistency.
- Experiment with cheeses! Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or mix in some cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
Creative Twists
This lasagna soup is highly adaptable! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a hearty meat-free dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced chili peppers or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give your soup some heat.
- Pasta Alternatives: Try using orecchiette or shells instead of ziti or fusilli for a fun shape and texture.
Your Questions Answered
How long does prep take?
The prep time is quite minimal—about 15-20 minutes to gather and chop ingredients.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version, or try using a mix of meats for added flavor.
How do I know if my soup is done?
The pasta will be tender, and the flavors should be well-combined. Remember, it will continue to thicken as it cools, so slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to store leftovers.
Enjoy this hearty crockpot lasagna soup as a warm, delicious meal that brings comfort and joy to the dining table!
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain off any excess fat.
- In your crockpot, combine the meat mixture with the crushed tomatoes, broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the mixture on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the pasta is tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy the hearty goodness of this lasagna soup!
