If you are craving the comforting flavors of classic Italian lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, you will absolutely love this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe. It captures every rich, cheesy, and savory element of traditional lasagna, all in a warm and hearty soup that’s perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. With layers of tomato goodness, tender noodles, and a luscious blend of cheeses, this recipe makes every spoonful feel like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make and even easier to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe shine, you’ll gather a handful of straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create that signature lasagna flavor in soup form. Each component is carefully chosen not only for taste but also for texture and color, giving you a vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds rich, meaty flavor and hearty texture to anchor the soup.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Lends aromatic warmth and a touch of spice.
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings bright acidity and chunky tomato goodness.
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth: Forms the flavorful base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Smoothes out and enriches the tomato texture.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that delivers classic Italian flair.
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick to awaken the palate.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Mimics lasagna’s layers in a delightfully slurpable form.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Offers creamy richness to complement the tomato base.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until it’s browned and beautifully caramelized, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds a savory base for your soup. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with your browned meat. Sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. These aromatics lift the overall taste and add subtle sweetness that complements the meaty flavors perfectly.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth to create the rich soup base. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. Stir everything together and bring it gently to a simmer. This step allows all the ingredients to meld, creating that signature lasagna essence you adore.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the simmering pot. Let the soup cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape. The broken noodles provide those familiar layers, making this soup feel just like the classic lasagna we all love.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While your soup finishes cooking, mix the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses together in a small bowl. This creamy combo is the crowning glory of the dish and will melt slightly when spooned on top of your hot soup, creating a luscious and indulgent finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the piping hot lasagna soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of the ricotta-mozzarella cheese mixture. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. Then, dive in and savor each comforting spoonful that perfectly melds all the flavors you love from a traditional lasagna.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top not only brightens the presentation but also adds a lovely fresh contrast to the rich, tomatoey broth. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil to elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness or some crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for dipping into every last drop of that delicious lasagna-flavored broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls for an edible, hearty touch or layer individual servings in clear glasses to showcase the vibrant tomato sauce, noodles, and cheesy topping for a visually striking presentation at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid adding the cheese mixture before freezing; prepare it fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Add the ricotta and mozzarella topping just before serving to maintain that creamy indulgence. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! You can switch the ground beef or Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker instead of on the stove?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies on the stove first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to break the lasagna noodles, or can I leave them whole?
Breaking the noodles helps them cook evenly and makes the soup easier to eat with a spoon. Whole noodles might clump together and be tricky to stir or serve, so breaking them into manageable pieces is recommended.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
Yes! Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can be used in place of dried Italian seasoning. Just increase the quantity slightly since fresh herbs are less potent than dried ones, and add them towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
How do I make the cheese topping if I don’t have ricotta?
If ricotta isn’t available, you can substitute it with cream cheese or cottage cheese mixed with a little salt and Italian herbs. It won’t be exactly the same but will still add creamy richness and texture to your lasagna soup.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe enough if you want a cozy, satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to pull together. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the best parts of lasagna without the fuss of layering and baking. Next time you’re craving comfort food, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup offers all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a hearty, easy-to-make soup. Combining browned ground beef or Italian sausage, tender broken lasagna noodles, and a rich tomato broth, it’s topped with a creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese blend and fresh herbs for a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Cook together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, releasing their flavors.
- Add the liquids: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken or beef broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors.
- Cook the noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles directly to the simmering soup. Continue to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: While the soup simmers, combine the ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheese in a small bowl to create a creamy topping.
- Serve: Ladle the hot lasagna soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the ricotta and mozzarella cheese mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness and color. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- You can use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make the soup gluten-free.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- To save time, use pre-minced garlic and pre-diced onions if desired.
