This Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is a warm and cozy dish! Packed with layers of pasta, cheese, and all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna, it’s sure to please.
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic. I can’t wait to top it with extra cheese—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef to reduce the grease. For a healthier twist, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try lentils or a meat substitute for protein.
Broth: Beef broth adds rich flavor, but vegetable broth works great too if you’re keeping it lighter or vegetarian. Homemade broth can also enhance the taste.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are the way to go, but you can use other pasta types, like fusilli or penne, as a fun variation. Or for a gluten-free version, try gluten-free pasta.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a classic choice for its melty texture. If you want sharper flavor, try a mix of mozzarella and provolone. Ricotta can be swapped with cottage cheese if you prefer. Sour cream adds a nice tang too!
How Do I Make Sure the Noodles Don’t Get Soggy?
Keeping the noodles from getting mushy is a common concern. Here are some tips:
- Break the noodles into smaller pieces to help them integrate well without overcooking.
- Stir the noodles in about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. This allows them to cook just enough while keeping their structure.
- If you’re worried, cook the noodles separately and stir them in right before serving to avoid any sogginess.
Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or ½ cup sour cream (for creamy topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Italian bread or crusty bread slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty and delicious soup requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then takes 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the crockpot. Just a little waiting, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir until the meat is browned and onion becomes soft. Make sure to drain any extra fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot. This is where all the magic happens!
3. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like some kick! Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover your crockpot and let it cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavors will develop!
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles into the pot. Give it a good stir and let it cook uncovered until the noodles are tender, about 25-30 minutes.
6. Stir in the Cheeses:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. This will make your soup ooey-gooey and creamy! Yum!
7. Serve it Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Finish each bowl with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese or sour cream, and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for freshness!
8. Enjoy Warm:
This soup is perfect served hot, alongside some Italian bread or crusty slices for dipping!
Dig in and enjoy your cozy bowl of Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup! 🍲
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to season it well, as it can be milder in flavor.
What if I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth instead. Both will still provide a delicious flavor base for your soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also load up on extra veggies for more texture and nutrition!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed when reheating.
