This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With ground beef, noodles, and cheesy goodness, it’s simple and oh-so-satisfying.
It’s a breeze to make—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you kick back. I love to sprinkle extra cheese on top just before serving. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the soup hearty protein and flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use a plant-based ground meat if you’re vegetarian.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are best for this soup, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. Broken spaghetti or penne works well too. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary.
Ricotta Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess to the soup. If you’re out, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese instead. Just blend them a bit to smooth out the texture.
Beef Broth: It provides a great base for the soup. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute!
How Do I Properly Prepare the Ground Beef and Onion?
Getting the beef and onion cooked before adding them to the crockpot is key! Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Break the beef apart with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Add the chopped onion and continue to cook until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
- Make sure to drain any excess grease – this keeps your soup from being too oily.
- Mix in the minced garlic for just a minute before taking it off the heat; it’ll bring out a warm flavor!
Following this step will bring extra depth to your lasagna soup. Enjoy the richness!
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups beef broth
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lasagna Layer:
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
For the Cheese:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onion:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, usually about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Don’t skip this step; it adds wonderful flavor!
3. Combine Everything in the Crockpot:
Transfer the beef mixture into a crockpot. Now, add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time. Sit back and relax while it cooks!
5. Add the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve it, add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup. Stir gently to mix and cook until the noodles are tender.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Just before serving, stir in the ricotta cheese until everything is creamy and well incorporated. This makes the soup rich and delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and generously sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slightly into the warm soup!
8. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a lovely finish. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey or a Vegetarian Option?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great substitute for a lighter meal. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat or even mushrooms for a hearty texture.
What Pasta Can I Use if I Don’t Have Lasagna Noodles?
No worries! If you don’t have lasagna noodles, you can substitute them with any pasta you have on hand, such as broken spaghetti, penne, or rotini. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen up the soup!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this lasagna soup! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you can add some extra broth if it’s too thick after freezing.
