When you’re craving the comforting flavors of lasagna but don’t have the time to assemble a traditional dish, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup comes to the rescue! This hearty and flavorful soup captures all the essence of classic lasagna in an easy-to-make, one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delicious comfort food favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 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, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables and Tomatoes:
- To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
- Pour in Beef Broth:
- Add the beef broth to the slow cooker and stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the soup on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Lasagna Noodles:
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Continue cooking until the noodles are al dente.
- Serve with Cheeses:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish the soup with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of lasagna in soup form!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of this soup. You can also add extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the soup by adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the broth. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- For a keto-friendly version of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, omit the lasagna noodles and replace them with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. You can also reduce the amount of onion and bell pepper to lower the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I freeze leftover Lasagna Soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
- Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps as outlined above, but cook the soup in a large pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- What can I serve with Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?
- This soup pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or crusty Italian bread for dipping. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving the flavors of classic lasagna. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or customize it to suit your dietary preferences, you’ll love the delicious taste of this hearty and flavorful soup. So grab your slow cooker and ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warm and comforting goodness!
