If you’re craving all the comforting flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and sauce, this Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It brings together rich, herb-infused tomato broth, tender pieces of lasagna noodles, lean ground turkey or beef, and creamy ricotta—all simmered together to create a hearty, soul-warming bowl that feels like a hug on a spoon. Whether you’re new to slow cooker magic or a seasoned pro, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and decadent taste, making it a must-have in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe is wonderfully simple because the ingredients are all familiar, yet each plays a vital role in crafting that classic lasagna flavor in soup form. From the savory ground meat to the fragrant herbs and fresh spinach adding a pop of color, every item on this list helps build layers of taste and texture that you’ll come back for again and again.
- 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef: Choose your protein for a hearty base with fewer calories when opting for turkey.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth that melds beautifully with the garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a subtle kick to the broth.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The rich foundation for the soup’s tangy and sweet tomato character.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Keeps the soup flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
- 1 (15-ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese: Creates creamy bursts throughout the soup for luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses herbal notes reminiscent of traditional lasagna seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the basil with its robust, slightly peppery flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the underlying flavors, balanced with broth choice.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 9 to 12 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Perfect noodle size to enjoy in a spoonful without fuss.
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen): A pop of green nutrition and a lovely boost of color.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for that classic lasagna finish that pulls everything together.
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional): Brightens the presentation and adds fresh herbal aroma when serving.
How to Make Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking your ground turkey or lean beef until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked through. This step builds richness and depth, so take your time to develop that caramelization. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and transfer the meat directly into your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic right into the slow cooker with the meat. These aromatics will slowly soften and infuse their sweet and savory flavors throughout the soup as it cooks, offering a cozy foundation for everything else.
Step 3: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth
Open your can of crushed tomatoes and pour them in, followed by the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the flavors start mingling early on.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add your dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper into the mix. These seasonings are crucial—they transform the soup from simple to spectacular, echoing those iconic Italian herbs that make lasagna so beloved.
Step 5: Break and Add the Lasagna Noodles
Take your lasagna noodles and break them into bite-sized pieces, then add them to the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir so the noodles are submerged in the flavorful broth and cook evenly.
Step 6: Let It Slow Cook
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 4 to 6 hours, or high for 2 to 3 hours if you’re short on time. During this period, the noodles will soften perfectly and the flavors will deepen for a robust, hearty soup experience.
Step 7: Finish with Spinach and Ricotta
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach and dollop the ricotta cheese throughout the soup. This not only adds beautiful green color and boosts nutrition but also brings a creamy texture that mimics the luscious cheese layers in traditional lasagna.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked through and the spinach has just wilted, ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and, if you like, some fresh basil leaves on top. The gooey cheese melting into the hot soup is pure comfort in every bite.
How to Serve Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling shredded mozzarella cheese on top just before serving creates a melty, cheesy layer that keeps the soul of lasagna alive in soup form. Adding fresh basil leaves not only adds a lovely green contrast but also a fragrant herbal note that brightens each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully. The crunchy texture of salad or buttery crunch of garlic toast complements the soup’s hearty, soft noodles and creamy cheese splendidly.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider serving the Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls or mini ramekins for individual portions. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or sprinkle with chili flakes for a personalized flavor kick. These thoughtful touches elevate the homey soup into something truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier on day two.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just freeze portions in airtight containers, leaving room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving too long in one go to keep the ricotta creamy and the noodles tender.
FAQs
Can I use regular ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While lean ground turkey keeps the dish lighter, regular ground beef will add a richer flavor and still work wonderfully in this soup.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer everything on the stove in a large pot. Just brown the meat and follow the steps, simmering gently until the noodles are tender and the flavors meld together.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t your favorite, try using cottage cheese or even a blend of cream cheese with a bit of milk for creaminess. This swaps out the texture but keeps the soup luscious.
Is it okay to use frozen spinach?
Definitely! Frozen spinach works just as well as fresh and is convenient to keep on hand. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it towards the end of cooking.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To veganize this recipe, swap the ground meat for plant-based crumbles, use vegetable broth, and replace cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like cashew ricotta and vegan mozzarella.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe is the ideal weeknight dinner when you want the cozy flavors of Italian comfort food without the work of traditional lasagna. It’s forgiving, flexible, and absolutely delicious, offering a new way to enjoy a classic favorite that’s both nutritious and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 4h 0m
- Total Time: 4h 15m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup offers a delicious and comforting twist on traditional lasagna, made easy by slow cooking ground turkey or lean beef with tomatoes, broth, herbs, spinach, and pasta. Topped with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, it’s a warm, hearty meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Others
- 9–12 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey or beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
- Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker along with the cooked meat.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine all ingredients well.
- Season: Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Add Pasta: Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and add them to the slow cooker. Gently stir to ensure noodles are submerged in the liquid.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the noodles are tender.
- Add Spinach and Ricotta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach and ricotta cheese. Continue cooking for the remaining time to blend flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, serve hot in bowls and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef depending on preference.
- Use low-sodium broth to keep the recipe heart-healthy.
- For a vegetarian version, omit meat and use vegetable broth; you can add mushrooms for umami.
- If you prefer, whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used to suit dietary needs.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted for frozen; just add it a bit earlier to cook through.
