Looking for a meal that warms your soul and fills your belly? My Crockpot Lasagna Soup is just what you need! It’s packed with rich flavors from layers of meat, cheese, and herbs, all simmered to perfection in one pot. This cozy dish is easy to make and perfect for busy nights. Keep reading to discover the simple ingredients and step-by-step guide to create your own warm bowl of comfort.
Ingredients
To make the best Crockpot Lasagna Soup, you’ll need simple ingredients. Here’s the list:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can ricotta cheese
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Each ingredient plays a role in creating rich flavor. The ground beef or sausage adds heartiness. Diced onion and minced garlic give a warm base. Crushed tomatoes and beef broth make a tasty soup. Ricotta and cream cheese add creaminess. Dried oregano and basil bring in classic Italian notes. Salt and pepper round out the taste.
Remember, lasagna noodles break up easily in the soup. They soak up flavors while cooking. The mozzarella melts perfectly into each bowl, making each bite delightful. Finally, fresh basil leaves on top add a bright touch.It’s a true comfort meal you’ll want to share!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- First, brown 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat.
- After cooking, drain any extra fat. Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté these for 3-4 minutes until the onion looks clear.
- Next, transfer the meat and veggies to the crockpot. Add a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, 4 cups of beef broth, 1 can of ricotta cheese, and 1 package of softened cream cheese.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This gives all the flavors time to mix.
Finishing Up
- About 30 minutes before you want to eat, add 8 broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Stir them gently into the soup.
- Once the noodles cook through, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. This makes the soup creamy and cheesy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup hot, right from the crockpot.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and taste.
- You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Crockpot
For this cozy lasagna soup, I recommend a 6-quart crockpot. This size works well for the recipe and serves several people. If you have a smaller family, a 4-quart crockpot can still do the job, but you might need to adjust the ingredient amounts.
When buying a crockpot, look for these features:
- Programmable settings: These let you set cooking times easily.
- Keep warm function: This keeps your soup warm until you’re ready to eat.
- Removable insert: A removable insert makes cleaning a breeze.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to swap out the beef or sausage, try ground turkey or chicken. Both are leaner options and still add great flavor. For a vegetarian version, you can use mushrooms or lentils.
For cheese, you can replace ricotta with cottage cheese or tofu for a lighter taste. If you want a creamier texture, mascarpone works beautifully.
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. They cook well in the soup and keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Enhancing Flavor
To kick up the flavor, consider adding extra spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. These add depth and warmth to the soup.
For a creamier finish, mix in a bit more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream just before serving. This small touch makes the soup rich and indulgent.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
You can make a meatless Crockpot Lasagna Soup by skipping the meat. Use plant-based protein, like lentils or mushrooms. These ingredients add great texture and flavor. For a tasty mix, try these vegetables:
- Zucchini, diced
- Spinach, chopped
- Bell peppers, diced
- Carrots, shredded
These veggies add color and nutrition. They also blend well with the rich broth and cheese.
Spicy Option
Add some heat to your soup with red pepper flakes or spicy sausage. You can also use spicy Italian sausage for a kick. For more heat, consider these extras:
- Jalapeños, diced
- Hot sauce, to taste
- Chipotle powder for smoky flavor
These ingredients make the soup lively and fun. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste.
Slow Carb Version
To make a slow carb version, reduce the pasta and add more veggies. Replace traditional noodles with these low-carb options:
- Zucchini noodles
- Cauliflower rice
- Sliced eggplant
These swaps keep the meal filling but lower in carbs. You can still enjoy that rich lasagna flavor without the extra pasta. For the best taste, adjust the broth and cheese as needed.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure the lid is on tight to keep air out. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want it to last longer, think about freezing it.
Freezing
When you freeze lasagna soup, it stays fresh longer. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Leave some space at the top for the soup to expand. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the soup, use a pot on the stove. Heat it over medium heat and stir often. This helps keep the texture nice. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to heat it evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use different meats in this recipe. Ground turkey or chicken works well. You can also try Italian sausage for a spicier kick. If you want a richer flavor, use beef. Each option changes the taste, so pick what you like best.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store the soup in an airtight container. Be sure to let it cool before sealing. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this soup in advance. You can chop the veggies and cook the meat a day before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This way, you save time on busy days. Add the noodles about 30 minutes before serving for the best taste.
This blog post covered a delicious Crockpot Lasagna Soup recipe. We discussed all the ingredients you need, from ground beef to fresh basil. I shared simple steps for cooking, along with tips for choosing a crockpot and ingredient swaps. I also mentioned variations for meatless or spicy options, plus how to store leftovers.
Make this soup your own by changing the flavors and ingredients. Enjoy the comfort of a warm bowl, knowing there are many ways to fit it to your taste!
