Warm, hearty, and filled with comforting flavors, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly evening. This recipe brings together all the delicious elements of traditional lasagna but in a convenient soup form, made even easier with the use of a slow cooker. Let’s dive into creating this soul-satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 diced bell pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked ground beef to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, diced onion, diced bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Add Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Continue cooking until noodles are tender.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground “meat” or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this soup gluten-free.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Creamy Texture: For a creamier soup, stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto: Omit the lasagna noodles altogether or substitute them with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a keto-friendly option. Ensure the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes are keto-compliant with no added sugars.
- Low-Carb: Similar to the keto version, simply omit or replace the lasagna noodles with low-carb alternatives like shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I freeze leftover lasagna soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps but cook the soup in a large pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the flavors meld together and the noodles are tender.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese for topping? A: Certainly! Experiment with your favorite cheeses or use a combination of different cheeses for added depth of flavor. Fontina, provolone, or even cheddar can be delicious alternatives.
Q: How can I make this soup more filling? A: Adding more protein such as cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken can make this soup even heartier and more satisfying.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? A: Yes, you can omit the ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses or use dairy-free alternatives such as cashew-based ricotta and vegan mozzarella shreds.
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, offering all the flavors you love in a convenient and comforting soup format. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you follow the traditional recipe, opt for a keto or low-carb version, or customize it to suit your dietary preferences, this soup is a winner for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of homemade lasagna in every spoonful
