ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) with the chopped onion, breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks.
- Once the meat is browned and cooked through, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir again.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally if possible.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked pasta to the soup and stir to combine. The pasta will cook right in the soup, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- If the soup looks too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Allow the cheese to melt into the soup for a creamy, cheesy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
- Use Broken Lasagna Noodles: Instead of traditional pasta shapes, you can break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces for a more authentic feel. They hold up well in the soup and soak in the flavors.
- Go for Ground Sausage: If you want a richer, more flavorful soup, try swapping out the ground beef for Italian sausage. It adds a bit of spice and an extra layer of flavor.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth. For a more broth-based soup, add more.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and toss them in with the other ingredients.
- Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove and add a little extra cheese for a fresh taste.
Why This Recipe Works
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a fantastic dish because it combines the rich, savory flavors of traditional lasagna with the ease and convenience of a soup. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop deeply, while the tender pasta and melted cheese provide the ultimate comfort food experience. The addition of ricotta and mozzarella ensures the soup has that creamy, cheesy texture that makes lasagna so irresistible.
Pairing Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread on the side is perfect for dipping into this rich, cheesy soup.
- Green Salad: A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup.
- Crusty Bread: For an extra hearty meal, serve the soup with a warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta bread.
Conclusion
If you’re craving the flavors of lasagna but want something simpler and quicker, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is the ultimate solution. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy days when you still want a comforting, homemade meal. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, so clean-up is a breeze, too.
Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or just looking for a satisfying dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a warm, cheesy bowl of lasagna soup!
ADVERTISEMENT
