Cooking in a crockpot is like having a trusted friend who never lets you down during dinner prep. One of my all-time favorite recipes to rely on is Crockpot Lasagna Soup. This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into a warm and hearty soup that simmers together throughout the day. Ideal for chilly weeknights or a busy weekend, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience, making it a go-to for families looking for something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
Crockpot Lasagna Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort in every spoonful. Picture this: after a long day, you come home to the wonderful aroma of savory lasagna wafting through your house. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a budget-friendly option that pleases pickiest eaters, making it perfect for family dinners or even casual gatherings with friends.
"This soup tastes just like lasagna but is so much easier to make! My kids loved it, and it became a weekly staple!" – Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Crockpot Lasagna Soup is straightforward and incredibly satisfying. First, you’ll start by browning your choice of meat — ground beef or Italian sausage — for that irresistible flavor. After transferring the meat to the crockpot, toss in aromatic ingredients like chopped onions and garlic, along with the rich crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce that form the soup’s base. The addition of beef broth and Italian seasoning really brings everything together!
With everything simmering away, you only need to wait, as the crockpot works its magic over several hours. Just about half an hour before you’re ready to serve, you’ll add the lasagna noodles, allowing them to soften and meld perfectly into the soup. First, you’ll ladle the soup, then crown it with dollops of ricotta, a sprinkling of mozzarella, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese before garnishing with fresh basil. Sounds delicious, right?
What you’ll need
To create this mouthwatering Crockpot Lasagna Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
(For a lighter version, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use diced zucchini or spinach for extra veggies!)
