Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Gather your family around a warm bowl of this comforting Crockpot Lasagna Soup. It combines all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty and satisfying soup, featuring layers of creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and melty mozzarella. This easy, one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights and will fill your home with irresistible aromas that make everyone want to gather for dinner.
This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is not just a meal; it's a way to bring family closer together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Rich, comforting flavors reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Lasagna is a timeless dish that many people adore for its hearty layers and rich flavors. However, preparing traditional lasagna can often feel labor-intensive, especially during a busy week. This Crockpot Lasagna Soup offers all the heartwarming appeal of lasagna without the fuss. With just one pot and a bit of patience, you can create a comforting meal that warms the soul and satisfies hunger.
The beauty of this lasagna soup lies in its ability to capture the classic flavors you crave. The blend of savory ground beef, tangy crushed tomatoes, and creamy ricotta cheese harmonizes beautifully, providing you with that beloved lasagna experience in a more convenient form. You’ll love how easily this dish can turn any hectic evening into a dinner party, thanks to its appealing aromas and hearty taste.
Make it Your Own
While this recipe nails the classic flavors, it also encourages creativity. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you’re looking for something vegetarian, you can easily replace the meat with a medley of seasonal vegetables or lentils. The soup's versatility ensures that you can tailor it to your family's preferences or dietary requirements without sacrificing flavor.
Additionally, consider experimenting with different cheeses. While mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or a hint of goat cheese can elevate your dish. You might also explore variations in seasoning, such as adding crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or fresh spinach for extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients or showcase your culinary creativity.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is not just a one-and-done meal; it shines as an excellent option for meal prep. Make a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have delicious servings ready to go for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This is particularly helpful for families on the go, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle of daily cooking.
Leftovers of this soup are just as delightful—if not more so—than the first serving. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, leading to an even more satisfying experience the next day. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnishing
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
In your crockpot, combine the cooked beef, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot and stir everything together.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the noodles are tender.
Add Cheeses
Stir in ricotta cheese and top with mozzarella about 30 minutes before serving. Let it melt slightly.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Serve hot with crusty bread or a salad.
Tips for the Best Lasagna Soup
To achieve the best flavor in your Crockpot Lasagna Soup, use a quality brand of crushed tomatoes. They form the base of your soup, so opting for whole, natural ingredients will enhance the overall taste. Additionally, don’t hesitate to sauté your garlic and onions until they are fragrant before adding them to the crockpot. This step adds depth to the flavor profile.
Consider incorporating fresh herbs as you cook. Basil and oregano pair wonderfully with the lasagna flavors and can be added either at the beginning or right before serving to give a fresh touch. If you'd like to make it even more nutritious, tossing in some leafy greens, like kale or spinach, during the last hour of cooking will not only add color but a healthy boost as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the lasagna soup? Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat and serve fresh for an instant meal.
What can I serve with this soup? While the soup is hearty on its own, it pairs beautifully with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the soup's richness and add a refreshing crunch to your meal, making it even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cool the soup completely before freezing.
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Gather your family around a warm bowl of this comforting Crockpot Lasagna Soup. It combines all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty and satisfying soup, featuring layers of creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and melty mozzarella. This easy, one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights and will fill your home with irresistible aromas that make everyone want to gather for dinner.
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnishing
How-To Steps
In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
In your crockpot, combine the cooked beef, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot and stir everything together.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the noodles are tender.
Stir in ricotta cheese and top with mozzarella about 30 minutes before serving. Let it melt slightly.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g