This cozy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with pasta, cheese, and meaty goodness, it’s super easy to make and full of flavor.
I love how it all cooks together while I do other things. And who can resist the tasty cheese on top? Just add some garlic bread, and dinner is done! 🍞😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or use plant-based meat if you’re vegetarian.
Marinara Sauce: A store-bought sauce is totally fine, but making your own is easy! If you’re out of marinara, any tomato-based pasta sauce works also.
Broth: Beef broth enhances the flavor, but feel free to swap it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Chicken broth works too!
Lasagna Noodles: I usually break regular lasagna noodles, but you can use any pasta shape you have at home. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can replace it with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. If you love cheesiness, add more mozzarella or use provolone!
How Do You Get Noodles Perfectly Cooked in Soup?
Cooking noodles in soup can sometimes be tricky, but you want them just right. Here’s how:
- Add broken noodles to the soup about 30 minutes before serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Ensure the soup is bubbling when you add the noodles; this helps them cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
By following these steps, your lasagna soup will have perfectly cooked noodles—every time!
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup will take about 15 minutes of prep time and will cook for 5-6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it until it’s time to enjoy a hearty bowl of deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are nice and soft. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat after cooking!
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer that delicious beef mixture into the crockpot. Now add the marinara sauce, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely!
3. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. This is where the magic happens; all those flavors meld together beautifully!
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take those lasagna noodles and break them into smaller pieces. Stir them into the crockpot, making sure they’re well mixed in. Cover again and let them cook until tender—about 30 minutes should do the trick!
5. Stir in the Cheeses:
Once the noodles are cooked just right, stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted and creamy—it’s going to be so good!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm, cheesy soup into bowls. Finish it off with a sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side, and enjoy this comforting meal!
This soup is a comforting, cheesy lasagna-inspired meal made easy in the crockpot!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just be aware that it may have a milder flavor, so you could add a little extra seasoning if desired.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can use cottage cheese for a similar texture, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Both will still add that delicious creaminess to your soup!