Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! This dish tastes just like traditional lasagna, but it’s way easier to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this soup is packed with flavor and comfort. It’s versatile enough to be a family meal or a gathering dish, showcasing the rich flavors of Italian-inspired cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Most of the work is done in the slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while it cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and spices creates a deep and satisfying taste that rivals classic lasagna.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out meats or adjust the spice levels to suit your preferences.
• Comforting Meal: This soup is perfect for chilly days, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing flavors without constant attention.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to your soup’s flavor.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping vegetables like onions and garlic efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for ground turkey)
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or 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 the Noodles 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

In a large skillet over medium heat, fully cook the ground beef. Drain any excess grease before moving on.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the cooked beef to the slow cooker insert. Then include the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth or vegetable broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried parsley, onion powder, oregano, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Place the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours until all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Noodles

When you have about 30 minutes left in your cooking time, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Cover again and continue cooking until noodles are tender—around 30-45 minutes should suffice.

Step 5: Final Touches

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

Step 6: Serve Up!

Serve immediately topped with mozzarella cheese, a dollop of ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Any leftovers should be stored in a sealed container in your refrigerator and enjoyed within four days.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a warm, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Toppings

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more mozzarella or parmesan on top for an indulgent touch.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a spicy kick, add this as a garnish.

Bread Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping in the soup.
• Crusty Breadsticks: Soft and chewy breadsticks make for a delightful side that complements the soup.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing pairs well with the flavors of the soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.

Serving Bowls

• Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for a personalized touch at gatherings.
• Large Serving Pot: Keep it casual by serving directly from the slow cooker for family-style dining.

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: Fresh herbs and high-quality broth enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your palate.
• Layer Flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker can deepen their flavors.
• Monitor Noodle Texture: Add lasagna noodles in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking them.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for about 15 minutes after cooking; it helps meld all the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Complement your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance its hearty appeal.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up the soup.
2. Italian Salad: A mix of greens, olives, and Italian dressing adds freshness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy side option.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cheeses, olives, and cured meats creates a delightful appetizer spread.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a bite-sized treat that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that complements the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly.

• Using Uncooked Noodles: Adding uncooked lasagna noodles directly to the slow cooker can lead to mushy texture. Always break them into pieces and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can result in a bland dish. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.
• Overlooking Browning Meat: Skipping the browning step for ground beef or turkey can lead to less flavor. Always brown the meat before adding to the slow cooker to develop a rich taste.
• Neglecting Broth Quality: Using low-quality broth may affect the overall taste. Opt for a good-quality chicken or vegetable broth for a more flavorful soup.
• Not Stirring Ingredients: Forgetting to mix ingredients well can cause uneven cooking. Stir everything together before closing the lid to ensure all flavors meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Consume within 4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup that might help you while preparing this delicious dish.

What is Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of lasagna in a hearty soup form, perfect for cozy nights.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that makes the soup lighter without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap cheeses based on your preference for added variety.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace meat with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

Cook on Low for about 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours until all ingredients are cooked through and flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is an easy-to-make comfort food that captures all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna. With its versatility, you can customize it with various ingredients like veggies or different cheeses. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl filled with love!

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Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Warm up with a bowl of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, a comforting dish that brings the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna into a hearty soup form. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe combines ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheeses for a satisfying meal the whole family will love. With minimal prep involved, simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work. Enjoy every spoonful as you savor the Italian-inspired goodness, and don’t forget—leftovers taste even better the next day!

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 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
• 8 lasagna noodles broken into pieces
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
2. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker and add diced onion, minced garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Stir to combine.
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 and cook until tender.
5. Before serving, mix in balsamic vinegar and grated parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve topped with mozzarella cheese, ricotta, and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (Low)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg