Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! It tastes just like traditional lasagna, but it’s much easier to make. This comforting soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. With layers of flavor and three types of cheese, it brings all the appeal of lasagna without the hassle. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy comfort food that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of marinara sauce, herbs, and cheese gives this soup a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite veggies or protein options; it’s great with ground turkey or beef.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—simply store in the fridge for up to four days.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is sure to please everyone at the dinner table, making it ideal for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking. Set it up in the morning and come home to a warm meal.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for ground turkey)
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground Italian sausage (use ground turkey for a lightened-up 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 & 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: Brown the Meat

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the cooked beef to the slow cooker insert. Then, add:
– Diced onion
– Minced garlic
– Broth
– Marinara
– Diced tomatoes
– Dried herbs

Mix everything until well combined.

Step 3: Cook in Slow Cooker

Cover and set your slow cooker on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 4: Add Noodles

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

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

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

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup that brings warmth and flavor into your home!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a delightful dish that combines all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, hearty bowl. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread on the side for a crunchy complement.
• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into your soup and soaking up all the flavors.

Adding Toppings

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Cheese: Offer additional mozzarella or parmesan cheese for those who love a cheesy finish.

Pairing with Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance well with the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

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 vegetables and high-quality broth enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust seasonings according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
• Cook Noodles Separately: For a firmer texture, cook noodles separately and add them just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking for flavors to meld perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Pair your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup with these delightful side dishes to create a complete meal.

1. Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlic-coated knots are perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a filling accompaniment.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats (or plant-based alternatives) offers variety and flavor.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind for the best results.

• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using the wrong meat or broth can change the flavor. Stick to ground beef or turkey and a good quality broth for authentic taste.
• Bold overcooking noodles: Adding lasagna noodles too early can lead to mushy pasta. Wait until there’s about 30 minutes left in cooking time.
• Bold ignoring seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can make your soup bland. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Bold not stirring enough: Failing to stir the ingredients well can result in uneven cooking. Mix everything thoroughly at least once during cooking.
• Bold skipping the garnish: Garnishes add flavor and visual appeal. Always top your soup with mozzarella, ricotta, and fresh parsley before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers that are labeled with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making this delicious Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use other types of meat for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or even lamb if you prefer. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to your slow cooker.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, simply replace the meat with extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

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

Cooking times vary: on low heat, it takes about 6-8 hours; on high heat, around 3-4 hours. Adjust based on your schedule!

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you’re out of ricotta cheese, cottage cheese works well as a substitute while keeping a similar creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is the perfect comfort food that captures all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna while being incredibly easy to prepare. With options for customization like different meats or added vegetables, you can tailor this recipe to fit your taste preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how satisfying it is!