As I stirred the bubbling pot of anticipation, I couldn't help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. There's something undeniably comforting about the aromas of fresh garlic and simmering tomatoes, reminding me of cozy family dinners around the table. My Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is not just an easy dish to prepare; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With just about 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal slowly coming together, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or when you just need an extra dose of comfort. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day! What could be better than having a rich, satisfying lasagna come together effortlessly in your slow cooker? Are you ready to dive into this savory goodness?
Why Is This Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting, Hearty Dish: The meltingly tender lasagna noodles combined with a rich, savory broth makes each spoonful feel like a warm embrace.
Set It and Forget It: With only 15 minutes of prep, you can spend more time enjoying your evening and less time worrying about dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The blend of seasoned beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy ricotta ensures this dish will be a hit among family and friends.
Versatile Delight: Customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, making it adaptable for any taste preference.
Leftover Magic: Enjoying this soup the next day is a treat as the flavors meld together overnight—perfect for easy lunches or dinners.
Discover the beauty of slow cooking with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup that brings joy to your table!
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Ingredients
Let’s gather the star players for this delicious dish!
For the Soup Base
- Ground beef – a savory foundation that adds richness.
- Medium onion, chopped – brings a sweet, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Garlic, minced – enhances the soup with its fragrant essence.
- Dried oregano – adds a touch of earthiness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Dried basil – brings that classic Italian herb taste that makes this soup sing.
- Salt – enhances all flavors while warming your taste buds.
- Black pepper – adds just the right hint of spice to elevate the dish.
- Beef broth – the flavorful base that ties it all together.
- Crushed tomatoes – provides a rich, tangy sweetness and beautiful color.
For the Noodles and Cheeses
- Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – gives you that beloved lasagna texture in each bowl.
- Ricotta cheese – makes the soup creamy and adds a touch of decadence.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully on top for a gooey finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – a final sprinkle of umami goodness that elevates the dish.
For Garnish
- Fresh basil (optional) – adds a burst of freshness and a vibrant pop of color.
Get ready to bring the warmth and comfort of this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup to your dinner table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef with a chopped medium onion for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the beef mixture from the skillet into your slow cooker. Next, pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, stirring everything together with a wooden spoon to ensure even distribution. This fragrant mixture will serve as the hearty base of your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
Break 8 ounces of lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the slow cooker, pushing them down into the liquid as much as possible. Cover the slow cooker, setting it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Check the noodles halfway through, stirring gently to promote even cooking and ensure they soften perfectly.
Step 4: Incorporate the Ricotta
Once the cooking time is complete, check that the noodles are tender; they should be soft but not mushy. Stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese until thoroughly combined, creating a creamy texture throughout the soup. The addition of ricotta enriches the flavor, making your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup even more delightful.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into serving bowls, ensuring each bowl gets a hearty mix of the delicious ingredients. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a melty finish. If desired, garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness—your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup in advance is a wonderful way to save time on busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can measure out the spices and even break the lasagna noodles ahead of time for quick assembly. Just before you’re ready to serve, combine the cooked beef mixture with the broth and tomatoes in the slow cooker, add the noodles, and let it cook low for 4-6 hours. This way, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal waiting for you at the end of the day, just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a memorable meal to share with loved ones.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices loaded with garlic and herbs create the perfect companion to soak up that rich broth.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing add a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers lend a burst of color and natural sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully.
- Parmesan Crisps: Savory and crunchy, these bite-sized snacks offer a delightful texture that complements the soft lasagna noodles.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, enhances the flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere for your dining experience.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: End on a sweet note with a warm, gooey chocolate cake that provides an indulgent finish to this comforting meal.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, and olives introduces an array of flavors and serves as a fun appetizer before diving into the soup.
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complete your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store your leftover Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top as it expands when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Serving: When serving leftovers, top with fresh cheese to bring back that creamy goodness and enjoy a quick, comforting meal any night of the week!
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds for an even more delightful experience!
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Dairy-Free: Use cashew or almond milk ricotta in place of regular ricotta for a lighter, dairy-free option. This swap will keep the soup creamy while satisfying non-dairy diets.
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Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. You could also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix for a spicy twist! This will introduce warmth and a delightful heat that balances beautifully with the richness of the broth.
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Whole Wheat Noodles: Switch lasagna noodles for whole wheat versions to boost fiber content. This small change makes the dish healthier while still providing that comforting texture.
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Pesto Infusion: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of pesto before serving to elevate this soup with herbal richness and added zest. The flavor makes each bowl feel special and unique!
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Italian Sausage: For a twist, swap out half of the ground beef for Italian sausage, adding depth of flavor and a bit of spice to the mix. This rendering ensures every spoonful has a wonderful punch!
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Extra Veggies: Load up on nutrition by adding fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. Just stir them in a few minutes before serving for a pop of green and a nutritious boost.
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Cheesy Surprise: Mix in extra cheeses, like gouda or fontina, for an indulgent upgrade. This variation makes your slow cooker lasagna soup even more mouthwatering and perfect for cheese lovers!
Don’t forget to check out our Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup to help enhance your dish even further!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
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Brown the Meat Well: Ensure the ground beef is browned and fully cooked to enhance the depth of flavor in your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup.
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Layer the Noodles: Break lasagna noodles into uneven pieces to create varied textures, ensuring they absorb the soup's flavors while cooking.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Be mindful of cooking times; overcooking can lead to mushy noodles. Stir halfway through for even texture.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality beef broth and ripe crushed tomatoes for a richer, more satisfying soup base.
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Avoid Clumps of Cheese: Stir ricotta in thoroughly at the end to avoid clumping; this ensures a creamy, delicious mouthfeel in each spoonful.
Enjoy the cozy warmth of your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup with these helpful tricks!
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for this recipe?
You can use any ground beef you prefer, whether it's lean, regular, or even ground turkey for a lighter option. Just ensure it's fresh and of high quality for the best flavor.
How long can I store the Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup in the fridge?
You can store your delicious leftover Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just let it cool down before refrigerating and take care to seal it well!
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and heat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if the noodles get mushy during cooking?
If you find your noodles turning mushy, it may be from overcooking. To avoid this, be sure to check the noodles halfway through cooking and give them a gentle stir. For optimal texture, cook just until they’re tender without losing their shape.
Is there a gluten-free option for this soup?
Certainly! You can substitute the lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta varieties. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure they cook properly in the soup.
Can my kids eat this soup if they have dairy allergies?
If your little ones have dairy allergies, you can make this soup by omitting the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Instead, consider using a dairy-free cheese substitute or creating a creamy texture with pureed cauliflower or cashew cream, ensuring it remains delicious for everyone!
Savory Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup That Warms the Soul
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- skillet
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 4 cups Beef broth
- 28 ounces Crushed tomatoes
For the Noodles and Cheeses
- 8 ounces Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with a chopped medium onion for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Carefully transfer the beef mixture from the skillet into your slow cooker. Next, pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring everything together with a wooden spoon.
- Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the slow cooker, pushing them down into the liquid. Cover the slow cooker, cooking on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring halfway through.
- Once the cooking time is complete and the noodles are tender, stir in the ricotta cheese until thoroughly combined.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and top generously with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
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