Crock Pot Lasagna Soup

Oh, let me tell you a story about the first time I made this scrumptious Crock Pot Lasagna Soup! It was one chilly Sunday afternoon, the kind where the wind whispers secrets through the trees and the golden light spills softly into the kitchen. I had just returned home from a bustling farmers’ market, arms full of fresh produce and a heart full of inspiration.

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After a prolonged week of activity, I longed for something comforting, something that wrapped around me like a soft blanket on a cold evening. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of lasagna soup! I thought, why not take all those hearty Italian flavors I adore and simplify them for an effortless weeknight dinner? The moment I opened the lid of my crock pot, a wave of herbaceous steam filled the air, swirling with hints of garlic and rich tomatoes. My kitchen instantly transformed into a warm embrace, and my family gathered around the table, eager for the first dip of their spoons.

Needless to say, it was a hit! With every flavorful bite, the love for this recipe blossomed. I’m sure once you try it, you’ll agree that this lasagna soup is pure comfort in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just a bit of chopping and browning and it’ll do the rest for you!
• Flavorful: Packed with rich Italian herbs and cheesy goodness, this is a flavor explosion!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for families and gatherings—everyone will be coming back for seconds.
• Quick Clean-Up: One pot means less time washing up and more time enjoying with loved ones.
• Customizable: Easily tweak it to your preferences; it’s as versatile as you are!

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef: Adds heartiness without too much fat—just the right amount of richness.
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): For that authentic Italian flavor! Choose your spice level.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Sweet and savory—this is your flavor foundation.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the secret to that irresistible aroma throughout your home!
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned): Brings the base of your soup together, bursting with comforting sweetness.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth without overwhelming the flavors—more savory goodness!
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: The perfect texture—you want those that soak up every drop of flavor!
• 15 oz ricotta cheese: Creamy, dreamy delight that adds richness and elevates each spoonful.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Because what’s lasagna without that melty, gooey cheese on top?
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A delightful mix of flavors that whispers ‘Italian’ with every bite!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for letting all those fantastic flavors shine through.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until they are fully cooked. Make sure to break them into small pieces! Drain excess grease and let that lovely meat sit for a moment while you get the rest ready.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re translucent. Oh, the smell of garlic dancing with onions is nothing short of magical! It sets the stage for the deliciousness to come.

Step 3: Combine in the Crock Pot

In your crock pot, combine the browned meats, sautéed onion and garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle stir—imagine those flavors mingling together like old friends finally connecting!

Step 4: Add the Noodles

Now, add the broken lasagna noodles and give another gentle stir. They will soak up all that hearty goodness as they cook—you might find yourself daydreaming about the results!

Step 5: Let it Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the noodles are tender. Feel free to take a peek and catch that aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s comforting, isn’t it?

Step 6: Melty Goodness

Just before serving, stir in the ricotta cheese until it’s beautifully melted throughout. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and let it melt—oh my goodness, you might not be able to resist stealing a taste right then!

Pro Tips for Success

• Soak Those Noodles: You can break the noodles and soak them in hot water for about 30 minutes before adding them to help them soften faster.
• Flavor Boost: A splash of red wine can add another layer of flavor to your sauce—don’t hesitate!
• Taste, Taste, Taste: Remember to taste as you go! Adjust the seasonings to match your perfect flavor profile.
• Low and Slow: For the best flavor infusion, opt for the low setting—patience, my friend!

Flavor Variations

• Veggie Swap: Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost!
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or parsley just before serving adds a pop of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your lasagna soup with a crusty garlic bread or a fresh, crisp salad. For drinks, a glass of red wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon can elevate the cozy vibes. Serve it in big bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan for that restaurant touch!

Make-Ahead & Storage

To prep ahead, chop your vegetables and brown the meats the night before, storing them in the fridge. This will cut down on prep time when you’re ready to cook! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Leftovers

Transform those leftovers into a glorious pasta bake! Simply spread it in a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. Yum!

Freezing

You can freeze the soup! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight freezer bags or containers. It’ll last up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

For best reheating, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts until heated through, but don’t forget to stir it—nobody likes cold spots!

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully.

What can I substitute for ricotta?
You can use cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free varieties.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?
Yes! Just simmer everything in a large pot until the noodles are tender, about 20-30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

As you dish out this delightful Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, know that it’s more than just a meal—it’s a hearty gathering of love, warmth, and comforting memories. I hope it fills your home with the same cozy vibes it brought mine. Thank you for joining me in the kitchen today. I can’t wait for you to taste this comforting delight! Happy cooking, my friends!

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Delight your senses and warm your hearts with this cozy dish. With each spoonful, may you find comfort and joy—just as I did! Enjoy!