Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that brings all the flavors of classic lasagna into a hearty bowl of soup. This easy-to-make recipe combines ground beef, rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the slow cooker. Stir well and continue to cook until the noodles are tender.
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
6. Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with a dollop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the soup.
- Noodles: Add the lasagna noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. If you plan to store leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl when reheating.
- Cheese Mixture: Mixing the cheeses beforehand ensures a creamy and melty topping for each bowl of soup.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy twist.
- Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme can enhance the taste significantly.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the deliciousness of lasagna into a warm, hearty soup. With its rich tomato base, tender pasta, and creamy cheese topping, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of preparing a satisfying meal in your slow cooker, and savor each comforting bite of this delightful soup!
