Craving the comforting flavors of lasagna but short on time? Look no further! This Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe delivers all the cheesy, savory goodness of classic lasagna in a simple, hands-off soup form. Imagine tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses, all simmering together in your crock pot to create a truly unforgettable meal. Whether you call it Easy Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup, Classic Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup, or Homemade Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the taste of lasagna without all the layering and baking. Get ready for a warm, comforting, and incredibly easy dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s designed to be incredibly convenient and satisfying. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to it:
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Effortless Cooking: Simply dump the ingredients into your crock pot and let it do the work! Searching for the best way to make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup at home? This is it!
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Ready in Almost No Time At All: While it simmers for hours, the actual prep time is minimal. Ready in just 30 minutes (active time)!
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Perfect for Busy Weeknights: Get dinner started in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
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Meal Prep Champion: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious lunches throughout the week. Great for meal prep or family dinners!
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Customizable to Your Taste: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferred meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Want more veggies? Add them! Prefer a spicier kick? Some red pepper flakes will do the trick!
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Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers freeze beautifully, making it a lifesaver for future meals.
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Beginner-Friendly: Looking for an easy Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup for beginners? This straightforward recipe is perfect!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable soup. Don’t worry, most are pantry staples! Note that these are the essential ingredients for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides a rich, savory base for the soup. For a vegetarian option, substitute with 1 (15-ounce) can of lentils, drained and rinsed.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds depth and aromatic flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that authentic Italian taste. (About 1 teaspoon minced)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the flavorful sauce.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Contributes texture and acidity.
- 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup. For a richer flavour, use beef broth!
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds aromatic notes. This is an important part of the Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup spice blend.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential Italian herb, complementing the oregano.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces: The key ingredient that makes this soup lasagna-like. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with rice noodles.
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a classic lasagna flavor. A good substitute for Ricotta cheese would be cottage cheese. Just be sure to keep in mind that cottage cheese has a slightly different flavour profile.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that irresistible cheesy pull.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, salty flavor and enhances the cheesy goodness.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh basil, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream.
How to Make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to create the best slow cooker recipe ever!
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage. Drain off any excess grease. This step helps to avoid consuming excess fat!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This is crucial for extracting the best flavors.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
- Transfer the browned meat, onion, and garlic mixture to your crock pot.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth (or beef broth), oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
Step 4: Stir and Cook
- Stir all ingredients together to combine.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How to prepare the sauce: (H3 Subheading)
- The slow cooking process allows the flavours to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and flavourful sauce.
Step 5: Add the Noodles
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking time, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 6: Stir in Cheeses
- Once the pasta is cooked and tender, gently stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Assembling the layers (H3 Subheading):
- While this isn’t a traditional lasagna this is as close as it gets.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh basil, fresh parsley, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
These tips and tricks will help you elevate your lasagna soup to the next level!
- Meat Variations: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for a deeper flavor. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Swaps: Try using a blend of different Italian cheeses, such as provolone or asiago, for a more complex flavor profile.
- Noodle Alternatives: Can’t find lasagna noodles? Use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them! Fresh basil and oregano will add a vibrant flavor. Add them to the soup towards the end of cooking to preserve their aroma.
Q&A:
- Can I make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time up to the point of adding the noodles and cheese. Store it in the refrigerator, and then add the pasta and cheese when you’re ready to cook it.
- What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup? The key is to allow the flavors to meld together in the slow cooker over a long period, allowing the herbs and spices to infuse the soup. Also, don’t overcook the pasta – add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
The best way to serve Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious broth. It also pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. This soup is ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or a potluck.
Drink Pairings:
- Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir complements the Italian flavors of the soup.
- White Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc provides a refreshing contrast.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a glass of iced tea are great non-alcoholic options.
Nutritional Information for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
(Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Per Serving (approximate):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
For a low-carb version of Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup, consider substituting the lasagna noodles with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
Storage & Leftovers
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Refrigerating: How long does Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup last in the fridge? Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
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Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
FAQs for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the perfect lasagna soup every time:
- Can I freeze Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup? Yes, you can! Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
- What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup? If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Can I add vegetables to this soup? Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- My soup is too thick. What should I do? Add more chicken broth or beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion & Call to Action
So, there you have it – a simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a game-changer for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves the taste of lasagna without the fuss. Now you know how to make the best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup at home! Try it out, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!
Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know what you think! We’d love to hear about your variations and any tips you have for making the perfect Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup. And be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media! Happy cooking!
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Hearty Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A comforting bowl of cheesy lasagna transformed into a hearty soup made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, browned and drained
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Beef Broth: 4 cups
- Dried Oregano: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Basil: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Lasagna Noodles: 8 ounces, broken into small pieces
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces
- Egg: 1 large
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, plus more for garnish
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, plus more for garnish
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic to the crock pot. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- While the soup is cooking, prepare the ricotta mixture by combining ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles.
- Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture into the soup and gently stir in the mozzarella cheese.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free option.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and omit ground beef.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For added flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Crock Pot, Cheesy Lasagna, Soup, Easy Recipe, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
