Cozy Crockpot Lasagna Soup

This Crockpot Lasagna Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna with less effort. Packed with tender pasta, hearty beef, and a rich tomato broth, it’s a cozy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: A hands-off recipe thanks to the slow cooker.
• Lasagna Flavor Made Simple: Enjoy the classic taste of lasagna without the layers.
• Family-Friendly: A hearty, cheesy soup that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for making ahead and reheating later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup Base:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/Italian sausage)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter option)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8–10 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces

For the Cheesy Topping:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (for dolloping)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnishes:

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Crusty bread (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is browned and the onion is softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Drain excess fat and transfer the mixture to your crockpot.

Step 2: Add the Soup Ingredients

1. Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
2. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

1. About 30 minutes before serving, break the lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the crockpot.
2. Stir well to ensure they are submerged. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 20–30 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Stir half of the shredded mozzarella into the soup, allowing it to melt.
2. Serve the soup in bowls topped with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and replace the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
• Spicy Twist: Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or other pasta.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup (without noodles) for up to 2 months. Add cooked noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked noodles?

Yes, but add them just before serving to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer the soup ingredients in a large pot for 30–40 minutes, then add the noodles and cook until tender.

3. What can I use instead of lasagna noodles?

Broken spaghetti, bowtie pasta, or rotini work well as substitutes.

4. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.

5. How can I make this soup thicker?

Simmer uncovered for a few minutes before serving to let it reduce, or add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to hold the increased volume.

7. Can I skip the ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can use cottage cheese or simply top with more mozzarella and Parmesan.

8. How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Add the noodles only in the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.

9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, blend or dice fresh tomatoes, but you may need to adjust the seasoning and liquid.

10. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.

Conclusion

Cozy Crockpot Lasagna Soup delivers all the classic lasagna flavors in a comforting, hearty bowl. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Serve it with crusty bread and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

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