This Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with all the tasty flavors of lasagna but in a simple soup form, making it perfect for cozy nights.
Who doesn’t love cheese? The gooey, melty cheese mixed with pasta and rich sauce makes each spoonful special. I like to add some extra cheese on top before serving. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the soup. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms as a substitute.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor. If you’re short on time, try using onion powder (about 1 teaspoon) or shallots, which have a milder taste.
Pasta: Lasagna pasta is traditional, but you can use any small pasta shapes, like bowtie or ditalini, if that’s what you have on hand.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that stretchy, cheesy texture. I love adding extra on top for a gooey finish. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives!
How do I make sure my pasta is perfectly cooked in the soup?
The key to perfect pasta in your soup is timing! Add the broken pasta about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. This way, it cooks through without becoming mushy.
- Ensure your crockpot is covered while cooking the pasta; this retains heat and helps it cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and taste a piece before serving to check for doneness.
Enjoy your homemade lasagna soup, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with these tips and tricks!
Crockpot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
- 1 (24 oz/680g) jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 oz (170g) lasagna pasta, broken into smaller pieces or bowtie pasta
For the Cheesy Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups (360g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (240g) ricotta cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll let the crockpot work its magic for 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just remember to add the pasta about 30 minutes before you plan to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Make sure to drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Transfer the delicious beef mixture to the crockpot. Now, pour in the beef broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if you want a kick!), salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to mix up those lovely flavors!
4. Cook the Soup:
Cover your crockpot and cook the soup on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully together.
5. Add the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna pasta to the crockpot. Stir it in, cover again, and let it cook until the pasta is tender, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes.
6. Make It Cheesy:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. This will melt beautifully and make your soup extra creamy!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and add a generous dollop of ricotta cheese on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
This comforting, cheesy, and hearty lasagna soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the cozy flavors that remind you of classic lasagna, all in a simple soup form!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The soup will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a bit more broth when reheating.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This lasagna soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture. Just blend it a bit for smoothness if desired!
