If you’re craving the comforting flavors of a classic Italian favorite but want something cozy and effortless, this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine all the rich, hearty goodness of lasagna transformed into a warm, luscious soup that simmers slowly to meld every layer of tomato, cheese, and pasta into pure bliss. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a satisfying meal without standing over the stove for hours. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings all the joy of traditional lasagna in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is straightforward yet vital, lending its unique touch to the soup’s depth of flavor, texture, and color. From savory ground beef to tangy tomato paste and creamy cheeses, these essentials make magic happen with minimal fuss.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty protein base that adds richness and meaty flavor.
- Chopped onion (1): Builds a flavorful foundation with a sweet, aromatic punch.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Breaks in with a fragrant zest that elevates the tomato base.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Forms the robust, tangy heart of the soup’s sauce.
- Tomato paste (6 oz can): Intensifies the tomato flavor while adding thickness.
- Beef broth (4 cups): Keeps everything simmering with savory depth.
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A savory mix that brings classic Italian herbs into play.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle kick for spice lovers.
- Lasagna noodles (8 oz, broken into pieces): Brings comforting chewiness and a pasta element to the soup.
- Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup): Adds creamy, mild richness for that signature lasagna feel.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into soft, gooey pockets of cheesy delight.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Sprinkles a salty, nutty finish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and enhancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the ground beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef, breaking it apart as you go. This step not only cooks the meat but allows any excess fat to be drained off, keeping the soup from getting greasy while locking in hearty flavors.
Step 2: Sauté onion and garlic
To the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for a couple of minutes until fragrant and softened. This adds a sweet and savory aroma that’s crucial for building layers of taste right from the start.
Step 3: Combine ingredients in the slow cooker
Transfer the beef mixture into your slow cooker and pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together to make sure every ingredient is evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
Step 4: Slow cook to perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. This slow simmering allows all the flavors to marry beautifully and the broth to deepen into something truly comforting.
Step 5: Add noodles
About half an hour before you’re ready to serve, stir in the broken lasagna noodles and cover again. This timing ensures the noodles cook just right — tender but still holding their shape— adding wonderful texture to your soup.
Step 6: Melt in the cheeses
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until they melt liberally throughout the soup. This final cheesy addition gives you that luscious, creamy finish that makes this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe so irresistibly comforting.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan or freshly chopped basil on top to bring fresh, bright notes that contrast perfectly with the rich, cheesy base. A dollop of ricotta or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add that extra touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside warm garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. These sides balance the richness of the soup and give you a delightful meal with a variety of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in mini bread bowls or rustic mugs for a casual, fun presentation at a family dinner or party. You can also layer some extra cheese on top and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust just like the top of traditional lasagna.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as satisfying as the first serving.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Make sure to leave out the noodles when freezing, then add fresh cooked noodles when reheating. Freeze in portions for easy thawing and quick meals later on.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up to the perfect consistency before serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Just brown it the same way and proceed with the recipe as usual.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can simmer everything in a large pot on the stove over low heat for about an hour, then add noodles and cook until tender. The slow cooker, however, gives it that hands-off, perfectly melded taste worth trying.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The Italian seasoning and cheeses will keep the flavors rich and satisfying.
Do I need to break the lasagna noodles?
Breaking the noodles makes it easier to eat in a soup form and helps them cook evenly throughout the dish. If you prefer longer strands, you can adjust, but smaller pieces work best here.
How spicy is this soup? Can I adjust it?
The red pepper flakes add just a hint of heat, which you can omit or increase depending on your spice tolerance. This way, you get complete control over how mild or zesty your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe turns out.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe is a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for busy days or when comfort is calling your name. Once you make it, I promise it will become a beloved staple—easy to prepare, packed with vibrant flavors, and wonderfully comforting. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with lasagna all over again, just in soup form!
Print
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the delicious flavors of classic lasagna in a rich, savory soup. Made with ground beef, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and broken lasagna noodles, it’s topped with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy days, this recipe uses a slow cooker for effortless preparation and a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, then drain excess fat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine in slow cooker: Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture to a slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper; stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook soup: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
- Add noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles, cover, and cook until the noodles are tender, approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Add cheeses: Stir in ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt and the soup is creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of crushed chili flakes.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop.
- For added veggies, consider stirring in spinach or mushrooms along with the noodles.
