If you love the hearty, comforting flavors of traditional Italian lasagna but want a quicker, fuss-free meal, this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine all the rich, meaty tomato goodness and creamy cheeses of lasagna transformed into a warm, spoonable soup that cooks itself while you relax or tackle your day. It’s a deliciously simple way to satisfy those lasagna cravings without heating up the oven or spending hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients is key to making this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe a breeze. Each element brings its own magic to the pot—meaty protein for depth, aromatic garlic and onion for layers of flavor, and fresh herbs for that irresistible Italian vibe.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: The base for a rich, savory broth packed with meaty goodness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and fragrant foundation when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For that irresistible classic Italian aroma and bite.
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides juicy tomato chunks that create texture and freshness.
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth: The heart of the soup, blending all flavors into a rich, warming stew.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Brings smooth tomato intensity and color.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a little spice.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Offers that classic pasta texture without the layering fuss.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: For creamy dollops that melt beautifully on top.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Binds everything with melty, gooey goodness.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish: Brightens the soup with fresh herbal notes and color contrast.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning your ground beef or Italian sausage. This step is crucial for developing that deep, savory flavor backbone. Be sure to drain any excess fat so the soup doesn’t turn greasy—just rich and inviting.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked meat. Cooking these until the onion is soft releases their sweetness and mouthwatering aroma, giving your soup a bold flavor foundation that will shine through every spoonful.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. This step melds all the ingredients into one harmonious flavor-packed soup base, setting the stage for the pasta addition.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Break your lasagna noodles into pieces and add them directly into the simmering soup. Let them cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick together and become perfectly tender. This way, you get the classic pasta bite of lasagna in every spoonful, without the complicated layering.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While the noodles cook, mix together ricotta and mozzarella cheese in a small bowl. This creamy, melty cheese duo will become the crowning glory of your soup, adding richness and that signature lasagna cheesiness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot lasagna soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous dollop of the ricotta-mozzarella mixture. Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and herbal brightness. Dive in with a spoon and savor every comforting bite of this incredible Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe to a restaurant-quality meal. Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds vibrant color and a burst of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or additional mozzarella right before serving.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crisp garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last delicious drop. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the hearty, creamy soup by offering a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out small loaves of Italian bread—guests will love the rustic presentation and edible “bowls.” Alternatively, layer the soup and cheese mixture in clear mugs for a pretty, layered look that showcases all the vibrant colors of this rustic Italian favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an even more comforting meal the next day. Just remember to add the cheese topping fresh when you reheat.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When freezing, keep the cheese mixture separate so it doesn’t affect the texture when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to heat the soup evenly, and then add your fresh cheesy topping and herbs. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors balanced and pasta from overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that maintain the hearty texture but make the dish a bit lighter. Just brown it well for full flavor.
Do I have to break the lasagna noodles, or can I use another type of pasta?
Breaking the noodles adds to the rustic charm, but feel free to substitute with broken penne or rigatoni if preferred. Just keep an eye on cooking time as different pastas may vary.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours before adding noodles during the last 20 minutes to prevent overcooking.
How spicy is this soup with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat to balance the richness without overwhelming the dish. You can always omit or adjust the amount based on your preference for spice.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese if I don’t have any?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be good substitutes for ricotta, offering a similar creamy texture with a slight tang. Just use the same quantity to retain the richness.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the cozy comfort of this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe when you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly. It’s a true go-to for anyone who loves classic Italian flavors with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making this your new weeknight favorite!
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Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, brothy soup form. Made with ground beef or Italian sausage, lasagna noodles, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked meat. Cook together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to build the soup’s flavor base.
- Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken or beef broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the simmering soup. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: While the soup simmers, combine the ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheese in a small bowl, mixing well to create a creamy topping for the soup.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot lasagna soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the ricotta-mozzarella cheese mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a bright, fresh finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
- To reduce cooking time, use quick-cooking or no-boil lasagna noodles, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding extra broth if needed.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine when adding the liquids.
- Crushed red pepper flakes can be omitted for a milder soup or increased according to preferred spice level.
