Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a comforting and delicious dish that captures the essence of traditional lasagna while simplifying the cooking process. This one-pot meal combines ground meat, tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Below is a detailed recipe that includes ingredients, instructions, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Additional ricotta cheese or mozzarella for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
- Transfer the cooked meat and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart crockpot.
- Add in the petite diced tomatoes (with their juice), crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
- About 30 minutes before serving, break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the soup.
- Cover again and continue cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Serve with Cheese
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a spoonful of ricotta cheese, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Cook Time: About 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Total Time: Around 6 hours and 15 minutes (including cooking time)
- Yield: Serves about 6 people
Conclusion
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is an easy-to-make dish that brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a comforting bowl of soup. With minimal effort required, it’s perfect for busy families looking for a hearty meal without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this delicious recipe any night of the week!
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, using Italian sausage will add more flavor to the soup.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, crusty breadsticks, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.