When you’re craving the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna but don’t want the fuss, Crockpot Lasagna Soup is the perfect solution. This dish brings the beloved layers of lasagna into a hearty soup that’s simple to make and entirely satisfying. With just a few ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you can create a meal that warms the soul and tames the most intense of hunger.
Why We Love This Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite. First, you have the rich, robust flavors of the beef, garlic, and tomatoes simmering together, creating an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze! Plus, you get to enjoy the delightful textures from the bursting noodles and creamy cheese without the hassle of layering. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The best part? It’s a great make-ahead option that tastes even better the next day, allowing all those flavors to meld perfectly.
Ingredients about Crockpot Lasagna Soup
To create your own delicious Crockpot Lasagna Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
These simple ingredients come together to provide a flavor-packed dish that’s both fulfilling and comforting.
How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup Directions
Getting started on your Crockpot Lasagna Soup is straightforward and incredibly easy—even for beginners. Here’s how you can whip it up:
- Begin by browning the ground beef in the crockpot. Add the diced onion and minced garlic as the beef cooks, allowing the ingredients to mingle for maximum flavor. Once the beef is browned, make sure to drain any excess fat. This step helps to keep your soup light and delicious.
- Now it’s time to layer in the flavors! Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture of tomatoes and spices serves as the flavorful base for your soup.
- Cover your crockpot and choose your cooking time. You can opt for low heat, which takes about 6-8 hours, or high heat for a quicker meal, which will take around 3-4 hours. Letting it cook low and slow will deepen the flavors where if you’re in a hurry, the high setting works just as well.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Stir them into the soup, ensuring they are submerged in the flavorful broth. This last-minute addition will allow the noodles to cook properly and absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Once the noodles have cooked to your liking, gently stir in the ricotta cheese along with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This will give your soup a creamy texture with delicious cheesy bites throughout.
- Serve hot! Garnish each bowl with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. The basil not only adds a lovely pop of color but also enhances the flavor and freshness of your soup.
How to Serve Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Serving your Crockpot Lasagna Soup is easy and can be done in several delightful ways. Use deep bowls to highlight the hearty nature of the soup, making sure to include plenty of noodles and beef in each serving. Pair the soup with a simple side salad for added freshness, or serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that flavorful broth. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top will add extra richness and a lovely zing. Don’t forget to set the table with some napkins—this dish is as messy as it is delicious!
Expert Tips: Crockpot Lasagna Soup
To make your Crockpot Lasagna Soup perfect every time, consider the following expert tips:
- For a heartier version, you can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mix. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds layers of flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a little heat, feel free to toss in some red pepper flakes. Spice enhances flavor, and a hint of heat can elevate your soup.
- Make sure to taste your soup before serving; adjusting the salt and pepper can make a significant difference in flavor.
- If you like a richer taste, consider using a beef broth that’s low in sodium. It lets you control the seasoning better and creates a more robust flavor profile.
- As the soup cooks, stir occasionally to break up any noodles or ingredients that may have floated to the top, ensuring an even distribution throughout the pot.
How to Store Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Storage of your delicious Crockpot Lasagna Soup is simple and effective. Once you have any leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This ensures that the soup remains fresh and prevents any bacteria growth. Properly stored, the soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. When frozen, the soup can last for up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and stir gently as the flavors may need a little reviving.
Variation of Crockpot Lasagna Soup
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. If you want to mix things up, consider the following variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a mix of your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms, spinach, or lentils, to create a fulfilling vegetarian soup. You can also add more dairy alternatives like cottage cheese or plant-based ricotta.
- Cheesy Delight: For an ultimate cheese lover’s dream, add a blend of different cheeses to the soup, such as parmesan, provolone, or gouda. This will create a multitude of textures and flavors.
- Slow Cooker Spin: If you enjoy the flavor of slow-roasted ingredients, try browning your meat and onions in a skillet first before adding them to the crockpot. This brings a deeper flavor to the table.
Whichever variation you choose, you will enjoy a comforting bowl of love infused with the spirit of Italy.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a flavorful, one-pot meal that combines all the traditional ingredients of lasagna into a hearty soup format. It’s easy to prepare and can simmer in your crockpot for several hours, allowing for an effortless dinner option.
How can I make my Crockpot Lasagna Soup healthier?
To make your soup healthier, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Using whole grain lasagna noodles can also enhance its nutritional value.
Can I use homemade broth in my soup?
Absolutely! Using homemade broth adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly since homemade broth might have different salt levels than store-bought options.
How do I reheat Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Reheat your leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave single servings for convenience. Just remember to cover your dish to maintain moisture.
Can I make Crockpot Lasagna Soup in advance?
Yes! This soup is excellent for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for busy nights. Just heat and enjoy when you’re ready!
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef Can be substituted with lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
- 1 unit onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Base Ingredients
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth Low sodium recommended for better control of seasoning.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
Noodles and Cheese
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces Ensure they are submerged in the broth for even cooking.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- to taste units Fresh basil For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Begin by browning the ground beef in the crockpot. Add the diced onion and minced garlic as the beef cooks, allowing the ingredients to mingle for maximum flavor. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover the crockpot and choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot, making sure they are submerged in the broth.
- Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, stir in the ricotta cheese along with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Serve hot, garnished with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
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