The aroma of simmering tomatoes and bubbling cheese wafts through the kitchen, instantly making your mouth water. This is the magic of Crockpot Lasagna Soup, where every spoonful offers a comforting embrace of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. creamy potato salad option.
Picture this: a cozy evening, friends gathered around, and laughter echoing off the walls while you ladle out this warm, hearty soup. perfect side for summer meals It’s the perfect way to celebrate any occasion, transforming an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary with minimal effort. unique pasta salad variation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is not only a breeze to prepare but also boasts layers of rich flavor that everyone will adore
- It’s visually stunning with vibrant colors from fresh ingredients that brighten any table
- The versatility allows for easy customization based on dietary preferences, making it suitable for everyone
- Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this dish warms both the heart and stomach
My friends’ reactions were priceless when I unveiled this dish at our last gathering; they practically swooned over it! healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty base without excessive grease that could weigh down the soup.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely so it mixes well throughout the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic will elevate flavors; avoid pre-minced varieties for maximum impact.
- Tomato Sauce: Choose a quality tomato sauce for rich depth; homemade or store-bought works well.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Adds texture and acidity; opt for fire-roasted varieties for extra flavor.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels while enhancing the savory profile.
- Lasagna Noodles: Break into pieces to mimic the lasagna experience; no need to pre-cook them!
- Ricotta Cheese: Mix in dollops at serving time for creaminess that perfectly complements the soup.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Top generously before serving; it melts beautifully over hot soup.
- Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs add fragrance and authenticity; use dried if fresh isn’t available.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by browning your ground beef. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook until browned completely, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease before adding to your slow cooker.
Next, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic into your slow cooker along with the browned beef. Stir everything together until well mixed, allowing those aromatic scents to fill your kitchen.
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients: pour in your tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes along with the beef broth. Give everything a good stir until all elements are combined into a saucy masterpiece.
Break up your lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and gently fold them into the mixture. No need to cook them first; they’ll soften beautifully as they simmer away in your crockpot.
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Enjoy the delicious aromas wafting through your home while you sit back and relax!
Finally, when ready to serve, scoop individual portions into bowls. Add generous dollops of ricotta on top followed by heaps of shredded mozzarella cheese. Watch as it melts into gooey perfection!
Serve immediately with fresh basil sprinkled on top, if desired, for that extra touch of freshness and flair.
Now you have an unforgettable Crockpot Lasagna Soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! For more inspiration, check out this one pot spaghetti recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful Crockpot Lasagna Soup brings the comfort of traditional lasagna into a bowl
- The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making everyone wonder what’s cooking
- It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Layer your ingredients thoughtfully in the crockpot. Start with sauce, then noodles, followed by cheese and meat to ensure even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, let the soup simmer longer—six hours is ideal
- Always break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces for even distribution
- Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning for added depth
Sharing a memorable moment when my cousin tasted this Crockpot Lasagna Soup and declared it “life-changing” made my day unforgettable.
FAQ
What can I substitute for lasagna noodles in Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
You can use any pasta shape, but break it into smaller pieces for better texture.
Can I prepare Crockpot Lasagna Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep it the night before and cook it in the morning for easy dinners. For more inspiration, check out this easy Irish soda bread recipe.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace meat with lentils or extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian version of the soup.
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of Crockpot Lasagna Soup, where tender lasagna noodles meet a hearty blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and gooey cheese. This effortless dish transforms any gathering into a cozy celebration, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll savor each delightful spoonful while enjoying the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 28 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 8 oz lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Add the browned beef to the slow cooker along with chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
- Pour in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth; mix well.
- Break lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve individual portions topped with dollops of ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg