Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe: A Comforting One-Pot Meal
When it comes to comforting meals that are easy to prepare, lasagna soup tops the list. This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup recipe combines the rich, hearty flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that delivers all the classic Italian flavors you love in a simple, hassle-free soup form.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients:
Main Ingredients
• 1 pound of ground beef: Adds richness and protein to the soup.
• 4 cups of beef broth: Provides a savory base for the soup.
• 12 ounces of lasagna noodles: Break these into smaller pieces for easy serving.
• 1/2 an onion (diced): Adds depth and sweetness to the flavor.
• 1 bell pepper (diced): Choose red, yellow, or green for a pop of color and taste.
• 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes: The foundation of the tomato-based broth.
Optional Add-Ins
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• 1 cup of ricotta, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese for topping
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you begin, dice the onion and bell pepper. Break the lasagna noodles into small pieces (about 1–2 inches).
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Add the cooked ground beef, diced onion, diced bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth to your slow cooker. Stir to combine. For extra flavor, mix in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6–8 hours, or on high heat for 3–4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Lasagna Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure they are submerged in the liquid. Cook until the noodles are tender.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite cheese—ricotta, mozzarella, or Parmesan. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the noodles toward the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add extra beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
• Customize the Protein: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie-packed soup.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
1. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute lasagna noodles with other pasta like penne or bowtie. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Cook the ground beef, onions, and peppers in a large pot, add the rest of the ingredients (except the noodles), and simmer for 30–40 minutes. Add the noodles during the last 10 minutes.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply skip the cheese toppings or use a dairy-free alternative.
5. What can I serve with lasagna soup?
Serve it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a versatile and hearty dish that brings the essence of lasagna to your bowl without the fuss. Give it a try, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!