Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! This comforting dish tastes just like traditional lasagna but is much easier to prepare. Ideal for cozy nights in or family gatherings, it’s a delicious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and the magic of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it.
• Flavor Packed: Combining ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and three types of cheese creates a mouthwatering experience in every bowl.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or substitute the meat for a lighter option.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Perfect for busy days!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: A warm bowl of this soup is all you need to feel cozy and satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are the essentials you’ll need for making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-free cooking, which lets flavors meld beautifully over hours.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning meat evenly before adding it to your slow cooker, ensuring maximum flavor.
• Cutting board & chef’s knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! Tastes just like lasagna, but it’s way easier to make. Made with ground beef or Italian sausage and three types of cheese, this soup is comfort food at its best!

For the Base

• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for ground turkey)
• 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
• 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: Brown the Meat

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the cooked meat to the slow cooker insert. Then include:
– Diced onion
– Minced garlic
– Broth
– Marinara
– Diced tomatoes
– All dried herbs including basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Soup

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

Step 4: Add Noodles

When there are about 30 minutes left in cooking time, stir in broken lasagna noodles. Cover again and continue cooking until noodles reach your desired tenderness—about 30-45 minutes should do.

Step 5: Final Touches

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

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Serve immediately topped with mozzarella, ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy every comforting spoonful! Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator; consume within 4 days.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use chopped fresh parsley or basil to add color and freshness.

Add Extra Cheese

• Top each bowl with more grated mozzarella or parmesan for a cheesy finish.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Pair the soup with warm garlic bread for dipping, enhancing the comforting experience.

Customize with Extra Veggies

• Add spinach or kale for added nutrition and flavor right before serving.

Include a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

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

• Choose the right meat: Ground beef offers rich flavor, but turkey can lighten up the dish.
• Layer flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their sweetness.
• Adjust broth levels: Depending on your preference for soup thickness, adjust the chicken or vegetable broth accordingly.
• Cook noodles separately: For best texture, cook lasagna noodles separately and add them just before serving.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more herbs or spices based on your taste preferences for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

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

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that provides a crunchy texture perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad
   This crisp salad adds freshness and balances the hearty flavors of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad
   Combining fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil gives a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetable Medley
   Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs offer delightful flavors alongside the soup.
6. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a tasty appetizer.
7. Spinach Dip
   Creamy spinach dip served with tortilla chips adds an indulgent touch to your meal.
8. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats complements the Italian-inspired flavors of the soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef or turkey can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown your meat first to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the noodles: Adding noodles too early can make them mushy. Add them only during the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to adjust salt and pepper can result in bland soup. Taste before serving and adjust as needed for balanced flavors.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor-quality broth can affect overall flavor. Choose a good-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best results.
• Not storing leftovers properly: Storing soup incorrectly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags 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, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup that you might find helpful.

Can I make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later enjoyment.

What can I use instead of lasagna noodles?

You can use any pasta shape you like! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta type.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, stir in a cornstarch slurry or add more cheese towards the end of cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. This simple recipe delivers all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the fuss. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!