This Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s full of flavorful beef, pasta, and a cozy mix of tomatoes and cheese—perfect for chilly days.
What I love most is how simple it is to make. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic! You’ll feel like a chef, and your family will think you’re a hero. 🍝❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the soup a rich flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jar for quick prep! If you want, you can use homemade sauce or a different flavor, like roasted garlic, to switch things up.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a dairy-free ricotta or cottage cheese for a similar texture.
Lasagna Noodles: Broken pieces work best, but you can substitute with any small pasta like fusilli, rotini, or even mini shells if that’s what you have on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef for the Soup?
Cooking ground beef is essential for flavor and safety. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and diced onion. This infuses the beef with onion flavor.
- Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft—about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat to avoid a greasy soup.
- Add garlic for extra flavor, cooking for just a minute.
Taking these steps ensures your soup is hearty and delicious!
Easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles or broken lasagna sheets
For the Creamy Finish:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you can let it cook in your crockpot for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that fills your house with amazing aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together. Stir until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. Once done, drain any excess fat.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. This will add a wonderful aroma to your mixture!
3. Start the Crocpot:
Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into your crockpot. Now, it’s time to add the other ingredients!
4. Mix It Up:
Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, optional red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just let it work its magic while you relax!
6. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the broken lasagna noodles to the soup. Stir it well and let it cook until the noodles are tender.
7. Mix in the Creaminess:
Stir in the ricotta cheese until it’s well mixed throughout the soup. This will make your lasagna soup creamy and delicious!
8. Serve it Up:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, topping each serving with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for that final touch. It’s the perfect comfort food!
9. Enjoy!
Sit down with your cozy bowl of Crockpot Lasagna Soup and enjoy all the flavors that come together so effortlessly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will make the soup a bit lighter. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and it will turn out delicious!
What Type of Pasta Can I Use Instead of Lasagna Noodles?
If you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand, you can use any small pasta like rotini, macaroni, or even whole wheat options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose for the best results!
Can I Freeze Leftover Lasagna Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover lasagna soup! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and it will still be comforting and tasty!
