Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! This recipe tastes just like traditional lasagna but is much easier to prepare. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings with friends, or meal prep for the week. The combination of ground beef, flavorful herbs, and three types of cheese makes it a standout comfort food that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices, marinara sauce, and cheese creates a deliciously comforting taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the ground beef for turkey or adjust the broth to suit your dietary needs.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves six, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.
• Freezable Leftovers: Store any extra soup in the freezer for a quick meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing you to create a flavorful dish with minimal effort.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for ground turkey)
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or use ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Pasta and Cheese

• 8 lasagna noodles broken into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• ½ cup ricotta

Optional Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, fully cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Add the cooked beef to the slow cooker insert.
2. Mix in the diced onion, minced garlic, broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried parsley, onion powder, oregano, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Soup

1. Place the lid on the slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.

Step 4: Add Noodles

1. When there are 30 minutes left in cooking time, stir in the broken lasagna noodles.
2. Cover and cook for an additional 30–45 minutes until noodles reach your desired tenderness.

Step 5: Finish Off with Cheese and Seasoning

1. At the end of cooking time, stir in balsamic vinegar and grated parmesan.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

1. Serve immediately topped with mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
2. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Enjoy this delicious bowl of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup that captures all the flavors of lasagna without any fuss!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is an inviting dish that warms the soul. It combines the flavors of traditional lasagna in a comforting soup format, making it versatile for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the rich broth, enhancing the overall experience.

Add a Side Salad

• A light side salad can complement the hearty soup, providing a refreshing contrast to its richness.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Set out extra grated mozzarella and parmesan for guests to sprinkle on their bowls, allowing customization to taste.

Include a Dollop of Ricotta

• A spoonful of ricotta on top adds creaminess and elevates the dish even further.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes for an elegant touch, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

To ensure your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality meat or plant-based substitutes for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Add broken lasagna noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs before serving. Every palate is different!
• Experiment with Broths: Try using vegetable broth for a lighter option or chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance, as flavors often deepen when left overnight in the refrigerator.
• Freeze Leftovers: Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later on.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that complements the soup’s flavors. Spread butter and garlic on bread before baking until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that balances well with the richness of the lasagna soup.
4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light and flavorful side.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Baked mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs offer an earthy bite that pairs nicely with the soup.
6. Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates variety and excitement on your table.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned simply can add a crunchy element to your meal.
8. Zucchini Fritters
   Lightly fried zucchini fritters make for a delightful side that adds texture and flavor alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish’s outcome.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat can lead to a less flavorful soup. Ensure you cook the meat until browned before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Overcrowding with noodles: Adding too many noodles can make the soup thick and gummy. Stick to the recommended amount for the best texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: If you don’t taste and adjust seasonings before serving, you may end up with a bland soup. Always taste and add salt or pepper as needed.
• Choosing the wrong type of broth: Using low-quality broth can result in a lack of flavor in your soup. Opt for a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for better results.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking may not allow flavors to meld properly. Letting it sit for a few minutes enhances the taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe container on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! It will give you a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

You can easily make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting meat. Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers instead!

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Cooking time ranges from 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, depending on your slow cooker settings.

What sides pair well with this soup?

Garlic bread or a fresh salad are excellent accompaniments that balance out the hearty soup.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your preferences—add more veggies or swap out cheeses as desired! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of warmth any day of the week.

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Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up with a delicious bowl of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, the perfect fusion of traditional lasagna flavors and comforting soup. This recipe allows you to enjoy the rich taste of lasagna without the hassle of layering noodles and baking. Packed with lean ground beef, aromatic herbs, and three types of cheese, this dish is ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping for a busy week ahead. With minimal prep time and the magic of a slow cooker, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 8 lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs for garnish
• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for ground turkey)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess grease.
2. Transfer the cooked meat to the slow cooker and add diced onion, garlic, broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in broken lasagna noodles.
5. Once done cooking, mix in balsamic vinegar and parmesan cheese. Season to taste.
6. Serve hot topped with mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg