This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup brings the cozy flavors of lasagna in a warm, comforting bowl. You’ll enjoy layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and spices simmered to perfection!
Making this soup is super simple—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. I love to top mine with extra cheese. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for this soup, but turkey or chicken is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. You could also skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version, using mushrooms or lentils instead!
Marinara Sauce: A 24-ounce jar of quality marinara sauce is essential for that rich flavor. If you don’t have marinara, a jar of spaghetti sauce or crushed tomatoes will work. You can also add your favorite herbs for more flavor.
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These are perfect since they soak up the soup’s flavors while cooking. If you prefer, regular lasagna noodles can be broken up, but they may need a little extra cooking time until tender.
Cheeses: Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, and mozzarella melts beautifully on top. You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. For mozzarella, a pre-shredded blend works just as well.
How Do I Ensure the Noodles Cook Perfectly in the Soup?
Cooking the noodles in the soup adds a delicious texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Wait until the soup is nearly done before adding the noodles—about 30 minutes before serving. This keeps them from becoming mushy.
- Make sure to cover the crockpot after adding the noodles. This helps them cook evenly in the hot broth.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all noodles are submerged in the soup for even cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked, hearty noodles in your lasagna soup! Enjoy a bowl filled with warmth and comfort!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 5-6 hours to cook on low or 3 hours on high. Perfect for a lazy day at home or a busy workday when you want dinner ready with little effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Remember to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat, so it doesn’t make your soup greasy.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. After that, remove everything from heat.
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Grab your crockpot and add the cooked beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth, marinara sauce, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3 hours. Let those flavors come together while you go about your day!
5. Add Noodles:
About half an hour before serving time, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Cover it back again and allow those noodles to cook until they’re tender.
6. Mix in the Ricotta:
Just before you’re ready to serve, add the ricotta cheese to the soup. Stir it in gently until it’s well mixed and creamy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Now, ladle the delicious soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. If you have fresh basil or parsley, feel free to garnish for that extra pop of flavor and color. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative and will work perfectly in this soup. Just be aware that it might have a slightly milder flavor, so consider adding extra spices or herbs if desired!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If you find the soup has thickened, you can add a little beef broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency!
Can I Freeze the Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, cottage cheese is a fantastic substitute! You could also replace it with cream cheese mixed with a little milk to achieve a similar creamy consistency.
