Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the delightful fusion of classic lasagna flavors in a cozy, hearty soup with this Crockpot Lasagna Soup recipe. Perfectly simmered for hours, it combines rich marinara, tender noodles, savory ground meat, and creamy cheese for a comforting dish that warms the soul. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, this recipe will become a family favorite for cold nights or busy weekdays.
This soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With the flavors of traditional lasagna, you can enjoy all the goodness without the hassle of layering.
The Comfort of Soup
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it combines the beloved flavors of lasagna. This Crockpot Lasagna Soup brings together the savory notes of ground beef or Italian sausage with the rich sweetness of tomatoes, creating a deep and satisfying flavor profile. The slow cooking process melds these ingredients beautifully, allowing the spices to infuse fully, resulting in a dish that's not only nourishing but also bursting with taste.
On chilly nights or busy weekdays, a hearty soup can make all the difference. It’s a meal that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. The ease of preparing this in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it. By the time dinner rolls around, you have a delicious, inviting meal ready to serve with minimal effort, making it a go-to for any busy household.
Lasagna Made Easy
Traditional lasagna can be quite the undertaking, often involving layers, baking times, and plenty of boiling noodles. This lasagna soup simplifies everything while retaining all the classic flavors you love. It removes the layering and baking steps, allowing you to enjoy this iconic dish in a fraction of the time without sacrificing taste. The addition of uncooked lasagna noodles right into the soup ensures that every bite is infused with flavor, unlike the more conventional methods.
Moreover, this recipe is highly adaptable, too. If you're looking to sneak in some extra vegetables, consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the pot. This not only increases the nutritional value but also enhances the flavor complexity of the soup, making it suitable for even the pickiest eaters. With such versatility, this dish can grow with your family's needs, creating an exciting dining experience every time.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best aspects of this Crockpot Lasagna Soup is its suitability for meal prepping. You can double the recipe and store servings in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you'll have a satisfying meal ready in minutes. Its flavors only get better after a day in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead option.
When storing leftovers, consider separating the noodles and soup if you find they get too soft over time. Keeping them separate allows for optimal texture when reheated. This means you can enjoy your lasagna soup as if it were freshly made, maintaining that perfect balance of tender noodles and hearty broth. Whether you're planning for a busy week ahead or simply want to indulge in comfort food anytime, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Add fresh basil for a hint of color and flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Combine and Cook
Transfer the meat mixture to the crockpot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6 hours.
Add Noodles and Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked lasagna noodles and cook until tender. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add to the soup just before serving.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting lasagna soup!
What to Serve with Lasagna Soup
Pair this delicious lasagna soup with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the soup wonderfully, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the soup. A simple green salad tossed with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing note, balancing out the richness of the lasagna flavors.
For a complete Italian-themed dinner, consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine, which enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and meat in the soup. If you’re looking for something more casual, crusty bread or focaccia works great. These options offer varying textures and tastes, making for an enjoyable dining experience every time.
Storage Tips
This lasagna soup is perfect for storing in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. When packaged properly, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove until heated through.
Keep in mind that while the soup's flavors deepen over time, the noodles may absorb some of the broth and become softer. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can add a little extra broth during reheating. This not only revitalizes the dish but also ensures that every spoonful is just as delightful as when you first made it.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to play around with this recipe to suit your family's preferences or dietary restrictions. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage. You can also opt for whole wheat lasagna noodles for an added nutritional boost. If you want to make it vegetarian, replace the meat with lentils or your favorite plant-based proteins for a deliciously filling alternative that still packs a punch of flavor.
Herbs and spices can also be modified to suit your tastes. Add a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a touch of smokiness. You could even throw in some Italian sausage seasoning for an extra kick, allowing you to tailor this comforting dish into something uniquely yours.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze it without the noodles. Add cooked noodles when reheating.
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Experience the delightful fusion of classic lasagna flavors in a cozy, hearty soup with this Crockpot Lasagna Soup recipe. Perfectly simmered for hours, it combines rich marinara, tender noodles, savory ground meat, and creamy cheese for a comforting dish that warms the soul. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, this recipe will become a family favorite for cold nights or busy weekdays.
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Transfer the meat mixture to the crockpot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked lasagna noodles and cook until tender. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add to the soup just before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 22g