Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with yummy pasta, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Making this soup is super easy—just toss everything in your crockpot and let it do the work. I love topping mine with a little extra cheese, because who can resist more cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. Veggie crumbles can also work if you’re keeping it meat-free!
Marinara Sauce: Your favorite jar will do, but you can also use homemade sauce if you have some on hand. For a twist, try a roasted garlic or spicy marinara for deeper flavors!
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These are super convenient because they cook in the soup. If you prefer traditional noodles, just break them up and add extra cooking time. Gluten-free noodles can work, just ensure they’re suited for soups.
Cheeses: Ricotta is creamy and delicious, but if you’re out, cream cheese can be a tasty substitute. I love using a mix of mozzarella and provolone for extra flavor, too!
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavors with My Ingredients?
Layering flavors is key! Start by browning the ground beef to give it a rich taste. Sautéing the onion and garlic helps release aromatic oils, making your soup so much better. Take your time with this step for maximum flavor!
- Don’t rush browning the meat; let it caramelize a bit for depth.
- Mix the marinara sauce with the beef broth for a balanced flavor base.
- Right before serving, stir in the cheeses until creamy for a smooth finish.
Feel free to taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking—building flavors as you go makes all the difference!
Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Noodles and Cheeses:
- 8 oz no-boil lasagna noodles or broken lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a busy day; just set it and forget it until dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your soup nice and light!
2. Sautéing Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This will enhance the flavors of your soup.
3. Preparing the Soup Base:
Now it’s time to transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot. Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, water, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then give it a good stir to combine everything!
4. Slow Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s okay to go do something else while it simmers—you’ll be rewarded later!
5. Adding the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, break the no-boil lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir them into the crockpot with the soup. Cover back up and let them cook until they’re tender (about 20-30 minutes).
6. Cheese Time!
When the noodles are ready, stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted and creamy. This is where the cheesy goodness kicks in!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is combined, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil and parsley. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper if you like. Enjoy your cozy, cheesy Crockpot Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean option and works well in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking steps for a lighter version of the soup.
What If I Don’t Have No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
No problem! You can use regular lasagna noodles; just break them into smaller pieces and add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they soften properly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would be great. Just chop them up and toss them into the crockpot when you add the marinara sauce and broth for added nutrition and flavor!