This tasty Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with pasta, rich tomato sauce, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s super comforting and easy to make.
You just throw everything in the Crock Pot and let it work its magic while you relax. Honestly, I could eat this every day and happily slurp up every cheesy bite! 🧀🍜
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Sausage: Both options work great for adding flavor. I often use sausage for its spices. If you want a lighter meal, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness. Yellow or white onions are best, but red onions can add a nice color and flavor. If you have a low-sodium diet, consider reducing the onion amount slightly.
Crushed Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: These form the soup base. For a chunkier texture, substitute crushed tomatoes with diced tomatoes. You can also use low-sodium options for a healthier choice.
Lasagna Noodles: I love traditional lasagna noodles, but you can use any pasta (like penne or fusilli) if you prefer. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try using blended tofu instead. For a different flavor, add some cream cheese.
How Do You Cook Lasagna Noodles Perfectly in a Soup?
Cooking lasagna noodles in soup can be tricky. To avoid mushy noodles, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, they will soak up the flavors without overcooking.
- Break the noodles into smaller pieces for even cooking.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for tenderness before serving; if they’re al dente, they’re perfect!
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How to Make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz (225g) lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and will need to cook in the crock pot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious, cheesy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by cooking the ground beef or sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir it until it’s all browned. Once cooked, drain any extra fat and transfer the meat to the crock pot.
2. Add Vegetables and Sauces:
In the crock pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked meat. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the crock pot and let it cook. If you’re using the low setting, cook for 6-8 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, set it to high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will mix and develop!
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Let them cook in the soup until they become tender. This is when you’ll start to smell the wonderful aromas!
5. Mix in the Cheese:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese. Once the noodles are cooked, stir this cheesy mix into the soup along with the chopped spinach or kale. Allow the greens to wilt into the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with the remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that cheesy goodness. If you want, add a garnish of fresh basil or parsley to make it look extra special. Enjoy your hearty, comforting lasagna soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute that works well in this recipe. Just make sure to brown it properly in the skillet, as it can produce less fat than beef or sausage. Season it well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles! Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the noodle package, as some gluten-free varieties may require different cooking times or methods. Add them to the crock pot about 30 minutes before serving, similar to regular noodles.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating!
Can I Freeze This Lasagna Soup?
Yes, this recipe freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
