Name: Amazing Crockpot Lasagna Soup One-Pot Wonder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489710H10M51S
Total time: PT-1H30M
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Crockpot Lasagna Soup has been my go-to weeknight savior ever since I discovered how effortlessly it brings the comfort of lasagna into a bowl. I remember the first time I made this one pot lasagna soup crockpot, the aroma of simmering tomatoes and Italian herbs filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal without the fuss of traditional lasagna. It’s so hearty and satisfying, making it the best crockpot lasagna soup for a cozy dinner. You’ll love how simple it is to get this flavorful soup on the table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Lasagna Soup

This slow cooker lasagna soup is a game-changer for busy nights. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Effortless Preparation: Seriously, just toss everything in and let the magic happen.
All the Comfort, Less Work: You get all those beloved lasagna flavors without the layering hassle.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This easy crockpot lasagna soup is fantastic for making ahead.
Hearty and Satisfying: It’s filling enough to be a complete meal.
Customizable: Easily add veggies or swap proteins to fit your needs.
Minimal Cleanup: Using your Crockpot means fewer dishes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting bowl.

Ingredients for Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Gather these simple ingredients to make this delicious slow cooker lasagna soup. It’s surprisingly easy to assemble!

1 lb ground beef – I like to use 80/20 for great flavor, but you can adjust this.
1 onion, diced – a medium yellow or white onion works perfectly.
4 cups beef broth – this forms the savory base of our soup.
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes – these provide a rich tomato flavor and liquid.
1 tsp garlic powder – for that essential garlic punch.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that screams lasagna!
Salt and pepper, to taste – season as you go.
8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – this is what makes it lasagna soup!
1 cup ricotta cheese – for creamy dollops on top.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that cheesy, gooey finish.
Fresh basil for garnish – adds a fresh, aromatic touch.

Key Ingredients Explained

The crushed tomatoes are crucial for that authentic lasagna sauce flavor, providing a thick and rich base. Italian seasoning, a blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, infuses the soup with classic Italian aromatics. These simple elements transform the dish into a comforting one pot slow cooker lasagna soup experience.

How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup

This easy crockpot lasagna soup recipe is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you ever made traditional lasagna on a weeknight! Let’s get this delicious meal simmering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Grab a skillet and set it over medium heat. Add your 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. You’ll know it’s ready when there’s no pink left. Drain off any excess grease, then carefully transfer the cooked beef into your Crockpot insert. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Now, let’s get the rest of the savory goodness into the slow cooker. Add the diced onion, 4 cups beef broth, the entire can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine all those wonderful flavors. Don’t forget to add your salt and pepper to taste!

Step 3: Slow Cook

It’s time for the Crockpot to do its magic! Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually opt for the low setting because I find it helps the flavors meld even more beautifully, resulting in the best crockpot lasagna soup. The aroma that fills your home during this time is just incredible!

Amazing Crockpot Lasagna Soup One-Pot Wonder - Crockpot Lasagna Soup One - main visual representation

Step 4: Add Noodles

With about 20 to 30 minutes left in your cooking time, it’s time to add the lasagna noodles. Take your 8 lasagna noodles and break them into bite-sized pieces – think roughly 2-inch squares. Stir these broken noodle pieces directly into the simmering soup. Continue cooking, covered, until the noodles are perfectly tender and have absorbed some of that delicious broth.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the noodles are tender, your one pot lasagna soup crockpot is ready to be served! Ladle generous portions of the hot soup into bowls. For that authentic lasagna touch, top each serving with a dollop of 1 cup ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Finish with a scattering of fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this comforting meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Making this slow cooker lasagna soup is already a breeze, but these tips will elevate it to the next level. Trust me, a few small adjustments can make a big difference in the final dish!

For richer flavor, use a good quality beef broth or even a mix of beef and chicken broth.
Don’t overcook the noodles! Add them towards the end so they don’t get mushy.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes all the difference.

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Lasagna Soup?

The real secret to the *perfect* hearty crockpot lasagna soup is browning the beef well before it goes into the slow cooker. This caramelizes the meat, adding a depth of flavor that you just can’t get by adding it raw. It’s a simple step that makes a huge impact.

Can I make Crockpot Lasagna Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This lasagna soup recipe slow cooker easy is a fantastic meal prep option. You can assemble everything in the Crockpot insert the night before, refrigerate it, and then start it in the morning. Or, cook it completely, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before reheating. For more tips on food safety and storage, you can refer to the food safety guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Lasagna Soup?

The most common pitfall is adding the noodles too early, leading to a mushy texture. Also, be sure to drain the beef well after browning to avoid a greasy soup. Finally, always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; the flavors deepen as it cooks.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Lasagna Soup

This hearty crockpot lasagna soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. For a truly comforting experience, I love serving it with a side of crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping into that rich, savory broth! Another great option is a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens cuts through the richness of the soup beautifully, making it a balanced and satisfying meal. This slow cooker lasagna soup is also fantastic on its own, especially topped with extra cheese!

Nutrition Facts for Crockpot Lasagna Soup

This easy crockpot lasagna soup is surprisingly wholesome, offering a good balance of flavors and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used for this slow cooker lasagna soup.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Lasagna Soup

One of the best things about this one pot lasagna soup crockpot is how well it stores and reheats, making it a fantastic candidate for meal prep. Once the soup has cooled down completely, ladle it into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will stay fresh and delicious for about 3-4 days. If you’re planning further ahead, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating this lasagna soup in slow cooker is super simple! On the stovetop, gently warm the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be aware that the noodles might soften a bit more upon reheating, which is totally normal for this comforting dish.

Variations of Crockpot Lasagna Soup You Can Try

This crockpot lasagna soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a meatless option, a lighter version, or just a little extra kick, there’s a variation for you. These tweaks make this slow cooker lasagna soup a true staple in any kitchen.

Vegetarian Crockpot Lasagna Soup

For a delicious vegetarian twist on this classic, simply swap the ground beef for 1 lb of cooked lentils or your favorite plant-based ground substitute. You can also add a cup of diced zucchini or spinach in the last hour of cooking for extra veggies.

Crockpot Lasagna Soup Without Noodles

If you’re avoiding gluten or prefer a brothier soup, you can easily omit the lasagna noodles altogether. The rich tomato and beef broth base is still incredibly flavorful on its own. Alternatively, consider adding cooked rice or quinoa in the last 30 minutes for a different texture.

Spice Up Your Lasagna Soup

Want to add a little heat to your easy crockpot lasagna soup? Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings in Step 2. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the Italian herbs wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Got questions about making this amazing slow cooker lasagna soup? I’ve got answers to help you create the best bowl possible!

What kind of noodles are best for Crockpot Lasagna Soup?

For this one pot slow cooker lasagna soup, I recommend using standard lasagna noodles broken into pieces. They hold up well and absorb flavor. If you’re worried about them getting too soft, you can always cook them separately and add them to individual bowls just before serving.

Can I use different types of meat in this soup?

Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, this crockpot lasagna soup recipe is versatile. You can use ground turkey, Italian sausage (mild or hot!), or even a mix of meats. For a vegetarian option, try cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty texture.

How do I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker lasagna soup in slow cooker, you have a few options. Ensure you’ve drained the beef well to avoid excess liquid. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking, or stir in a bit more ricotta cheese at the end for creaminess.