There’s something magical about coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of a bubbling pot of Crockpot Lasagna Soup. It brings back memories of cozy dinners with family, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the sauce simmering away. I can still picture my mom stirring her famous lasagna on chilly Sunday afternoons, and this recipe is my little twist on her classic dish. It’s a delightful way to satisfy those lasagna cravings without the fuss of layering noodles and cheese—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Every bite of this soup evokes feelings of nostalgia, comfort, and happiness. Plus, what I love the most about it is how effortlessly it comes together—all thanks to the trusty crockpot! You throw everything in, and a few hours later, you’re treated to a hearty meal. Not to mention, it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving a crowd, making it a versatile favorite in my cooking repertoire.
What’s in Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
Let’s dive into what makes this dish so delicious!
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: The choice of meat gives the soup its protein-packed backbone. I usually go for ground beef for a classic flavor, but Italian sausage adds a delightful kick!
Onion and Garlic: The aromatic duo that starts any great recipe! They bring depth and richness to the soup, making your kitchen smell divine.
Crushed Tomatoes: These are the heart of the sauce, providing that robust tomato flavor. I prefer San Marzano tomatoes; they’re sweeter and less acidic—a game-changer!
Beef Broth: This adds a savory base to the soup. I like to use low-sodium broths to control the salt level.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, it lends authenticity to the dish. You can even make your own to customize the flavors!
Lasagna Noodles: The fun part! Break them into pieces and they’re reminiscent of the classic lasagna we all love. No need to precook them; they’ll soften beautifully in the crockpot.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy component is essential! It gets dolloped in for that signature lasagna creaminess.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Who can resist the cheesy goodness? Use a generous helping to make every bowl ooey-gooey delicious!
Is Crockpot Lasagna Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with goodness, yet it’s comfort food at its best. Let’s break down some of the health benefits:
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Provides a solid protein boost. If you’re looking for leaner options, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well.
Crushed Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamins C and A, plus antioxidants like lycopene, these tomatoes pack a nutritional punch.
Onions and Garlic: Both offer immune-boosting benefits and add flavor without extra calories.
However, a few considerations: if you’re watching your sodium, be mindful of the broth and any extra salt you add. Additionally, the ricotta and mozzarella contribute fat, so I’d suggest using part-skim versions if you’re keeping an eye on calories.
Ingredients List
This recipe serves 6-8 hearty bowls! Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb Ground Beef or Italian Sausage
– 1 Onion, diced
– 3 cloves Garlic, minced
– 2 (14.5 oz) cans Crushed Tomatoes
– 4 cups Beef Broth (low-sodium)
– 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
– 8 oz Lasagna Noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
– 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
– Salt and Pepper to taste
How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. In your crockpot, combine the cooked meat mixture, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir it all together and cover again.
6. Just before serving, dollop in the ricotta cheese and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top. Cover until the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
Lasagna Soup Magic: Tips and Variations!
This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are some of my favorite adaptations:
– For a veggie-packed version, toss in chopped spinach or zucchini to the soup in the last hour of cooking!
– Feel free to substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian spin!
– Top with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.
– Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
So there you have it! I truly believe you’ll love this Crockpot Lasagna Soup as much as I do, and I can’t wait for you to dig in! Enjoy the cozy vibes, and if you try it out, please let me know how it goes. Happy cooking!
