The aroma of simmering tomatoes and melted cheese wafts through the air, weaving its way into your heart. Picture a cozy evening, where a bowl of Crockpot Lasagna Soup awaits, ready to wrap you in warmth and comfort after a long day.
Every spoonful is an explosion of flavors; the rich tomato base dances with layers of gooey cheese and tender pasta, creating a symphony that sings to your taste buds. This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl, perfect for gatherings or quiet family dinners, promising to please even the pickiest eaters.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Lasagna Soup offers effortless preparation, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully.
- The robust flavor profile combines savory meats and aromatic herbs for an unforgettable experience.
- The appealing colors and inviting aroma make it the star of any table.
- It’s versatile enough for weeknight meals or feeding a crowd on game day!
Ingredients for Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty base; feel free to substitute turkey or sausage for different flavors.
Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work best in this recipe.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides that irresistible aroma and flavor uplift – don’t skip this!
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes to enhance the smoky flavor profile.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth ensures you control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Lasagna Noodles: Break them into pieces before adding; no need to pre-cook them, as they’ll soften beautifully in the soup.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness; mix with herbs for an extra layer of flavor if desired.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for that lovely cheesy pull when serving – use part-skim for a lighter option.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside. This step adds rich flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant, about three minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In your crockpot, combine browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and broken lasagna noodles. Stir well until everything is mixed evenly.
Step 4: Cook Low & Slow
Cover your crockpot and cook on low heat for about four hours or on high for two hours. The magic happens here as all those flavors meld together.
Step 5: Add Cheesy Goodness
When cooking time is up, stir in ricotta cheese until well incorporated. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese before serving.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer your lasagna soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Grab some crusty bread or garlic knots to dip – trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
This Crockpot Lasagna Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter around the dinner table. So grab your favorite sweater, pour yourself a glass of wine (or grape juice if you’re feeling fancy), and indulge in this comforting delight!
You Must Know
- This delightful Crockpot Lasagna Soup is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- It’s packed with layers of flavor and is perfect for those cozy nights when you want something hearty without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, brown the ground beef to bring out its rich flavors. While it sizzles, chop your veggies and prepare the sauce. Once everything’s combined in your trusty crockpot, let it simmer gently for hours while you kick back and relax.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or sausage if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost. You can even play with spices—add some red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or pop it in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it gets too thick.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Crockpot Lasagna Soup, don’t skip browning the meat—it deepens flavor.
- Use no-boil noodles to save time; they’ll cook perfectly in the broth.
- Lastly, let it rest before serving; flavors meld beautifully this way.
Sometimes, I whip up this soup when friends come over, and their faces light up with joy at first spoonfuls! It’s become our go-to comfort food that sparks laughter and good memories at every gathering.
FAQs:
What is Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a delicious, hearty dish that combines all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a comforting soup form. It typically includes ingredients like ground meat, pasta, tomatoes, and cheese, simmered slowly in a crockpot. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, making it an easy and satisfying meal. Besides being tasty, this soup is perfect for meal prep and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Making Crockpot Lasagna Soup is quite convenient. The cooking time usually ranges from 4 to 6 hours on low heat or about 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The slow cooking process allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the broth and meld with other ingredients. For best results, it’s advisable to check the doneness of the pasta before serving to ensure it’s perfectly cooked without becoming mushy.
Can I freeze Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Crockpot Lasagna Soup! To preserve its taste and texture, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. When stored properly, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or in a microwave until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for meal planning and future dinners.
What toppings go well with Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Toppings can enhance your Crockpot Lasagna Soup experience significantly. Consider garnishing it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella for that authentic lasagna flavor. Fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of freshness. A dollop of ricotta cheese on top brings creaminess that complements the soup’s texture nicely. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you prefer some heat in your dish.
Conclusion for Crockpot Lasagna Soup:
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is an easy-to-make dish that captures all the delightful flavors of traditional lasagna while offering a comforting soup experience. With just a few key ingredients and simple steps, this recipe becomes a family favorite in no time. The convenience of using a crockpot allows you to enjoy this hearty meal without extensive preparation or cooking time. Whether you choose to customize it with your favorite toppings or freeze leftovers for later, this soup provides both versatility and satisfaction in every bowl.
Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that captures the essence of traditional lasagna in a comforting soup form. With layers of rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Simply set it in your crockpot and let it work its magic while you unwind. This flavorful dish guarantees satisfaction for even the pickiest eaters.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3 minutes).
- In a crockpot, combine browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and broken lasagna noodles. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- Stir in ricotta cheese until blended; top with mozzarella cheese before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, substitute ground beef with turkey or sausage. You can also include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. If you prefer a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the mix.
