Description
This comforting Crock Pot Lasagna Soup combines all the flavors of classic lasagna into a hearty, easy-to-make soup. Ground beef, tomatoes, herbs, and broken lasagna noodles cook slowly in a crock pot to develop rich, savory flavors, finished with creamy ricotta and stretchy mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a family meal or cozy dinner on a busy day.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Produce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dairy and Cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Pasta
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together to combine the flavors evenly.
- Cook the soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and develop a rich depth.
- Add lasagna noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. This timing ensures the noodles cook through without becoming mushy.
- Finish with cheeses and seasoning: Just before serving, stir in the ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or omit entirely and use vegetable broth.
- Red pepper flakes add heat but can be omitted for a milder soup.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter flavor, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
