Cozy Crockpot Lasagna Soup

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All the comforting flavors of lasagna in a warm, cheesy soup made effortlessly in your crockpot! This dish is perfect for chilly days or when you want hearty comfort food without the extra effort.


Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage)
  • 1 medium onion, diced – for a flavorful base
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced – adds aromatic depth
  • 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – rich and flavorful
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices) – adds texture
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste – enhances the tomato flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil – classic Italian herb
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for fragrant, earthy flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – adds subtle herbal notes
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 8–10 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces

For the Cheesy Topping:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese – for creamy dollops on top
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – gooey and melty
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for savory, nutty flavor

Garnishes:

  • Fresh basil, chopped
  • Crusty bread (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or chosen protein) until browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Tip: Browning the meat enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can add raw ground meat directly to the crockpot.


Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

  1. Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your crockpot.
  2. Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Stir everything to combine and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup

  1. Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

  1. About 30 minutes before serving, break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup.
  2. Cook on High for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Tip: If you prefer al dente pasta, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls just before serving.


Step 5: Add the Cheesy Toppings

  1. Just before serving, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan to make the soup extra cheesy.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with a dollop of ricotta cheese. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan over the top, if desired.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
  2. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy your cozy, comforting lasagna soup!

Tips for Success:

  • Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing Instructions: If you plan to freeze, leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating to prevent them from getting mushy.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground meat for plant-based protein or extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Yield: Serves 6-8

This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a cozy crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Let me know if you’d like variations or side dish recommendations! 😊

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