Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you’re craving the comforting flavors of lasagna but want a fuss-free way to enjoy it any day of the week, then this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine all the rich, mouthwatering goodness of a classic lasagna, but in a warm, hearty soup that simmers gently in the crock pot while you go about your day. This recipe blends savory Italian sausage, tender noodles, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted mozzarella into a cozy bowl that feels like a big hug on a chilly evening. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to bring the taste of Italy into your home with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

A close-up of a pan filled with lasagna soup showing layers of wide, wavy-edged pasta sheets covered with a thick, chunky red tomato sauce mixed with browned ground meat. Melted white cheese sits on top in patches, slightly browned and bubbling, sprinkled with small bits of green herbs. A wooden spoon lifts a portion of pasta layered with the sauce and meat, displaying a rich texture. The pan is set on a white marbled surface, with warm and inviting colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe stays true to the essentials, focusing on simple ingredients that deliver big on flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays a vital role—from the savory meats to the creamy cheeses and the fragrant Italian seasoning, creating the perfect balance in every spoonful.

  • 1 lb lean ground beef: Adds hearty, savory depth with a mild, meaty richness.
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Brings authentic Italian flavor and a touch of spice to elevate the soup.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Offers sweetness and a slight crunch after sautéing.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and depth.
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned): Forms the rich, tangy base that balances the meats and cheese.
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the soup flavorful and light, preventing it from becoming too salty.
  • 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Mimics lasagna’s familiar comforting bite in every spoonful.
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese: Adds creamy smoothness and a luscious texture when stirred in.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Tops the soup with melty, gooey goodness that makes every bite unforgettable.
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and bring out all the flavors harmoniously.

How to Make Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meats

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the lean ground beef and Italian sausage. Brown them thoroughly until cooked through, breaking the meat apart as it cooks for even texture. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily, which ensures a clean, hearty flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant—this step releases their natural sweetness and adds a flavorful layer that will infuse the soup throughout.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot

Transfer the browned meats, sautéed onion and garlic into your crock pot. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to meld those flavors before adding the noodles;

Step 4: Add Lasagna Noodles

Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and fold them carefully into the liquid mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring noodles are submerged for even softening as the soup cooks.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Soup

Cover the crock pot and let it cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The noodles should become tender, and the flavors will marry beautifully while you relax or handle your day-to-day tasks.

Step 6: Stir in Ricotta and Top with Mozzarella

Once the cooking time is up, stir in the creamy ricotta cheese until it melts and swirls through the soup, creating a silky texture. When serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for that luscious, melty finish that makes this a true lasagna experience in soup form.

How to Serve Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate this humble soup from delicious to dazzling. Consider a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A few grinds of black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice little bite. For the cheese lovers, a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan is an irresistible finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This soup shines beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the soup’s richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a classic side, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that cheesy, tomatoey goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or family? Serve the soup in mini bread bowls to add a fun, edible element. Alternatively, layering a small amount of soup in clear bowls showcases the vibrant colors and textures, making it as lovely to look at as it is to eat. Individual ramekins make for charming portions if you’re hosting a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe keeps exceptionally well when refrigerated. Store leftover soup in airtight containers and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for easy weeknight meals or packed lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the soup for up to 2 months. For best results, leave out the ricotta and mozzarella when freezing and add them fresh upon reheating to keep their creamy texture intact. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave space for expansion.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to distribute the heat evenly. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up before stirring in fresh ricotta and topping with mozzarella again.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version of this soup. Just brown the meat thoroughly as you would with beef and sausage, and you might want to add an extra pinch of Italian seasoning for more flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meats and substitute with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and the soup will still be rich and satisfying.

Can I make this soup without the crock pot?

If you don’t have a crock pot, you can make this soup on the stove. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer gently until the noodles are tender, about 20-25 minutes.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends on the type of Italian sausage you use. Mild sausage keeps it family-friendly, while spicy sausage adds a nice kick. You can also adjust by adding crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I substitute the lasagna noodles with another pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any sturdy pasta that holds up well in soup, like penne or rigatoni. Just remember to break it into smaller pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly for perfect tenderness.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe is one of those rare gems that’s both effortless and utterly delicious, perfect for busy days or cozy nights in. With its layers of flavor and comforting textures, it manages to capture the spirit of classic lasagna in a bowl. So grab your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a new family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to comfort meal, too!

Print

Crock Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe

This comforting Crock Pot Lasagna Soup combines all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna in a warm, hearty soup. Featuring ground beef, Italian sausage, tender lasagna noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, it’s a perfect easy-to-make meal that simmers slowly to develop rich and savory flavors, ideal for a cozy family dinner.

  • Author: Cara
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Tomatoes

  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Pasta & Cheese

  • 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasoning

  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the browned meats and sautéed onions and garlic into your crock pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, low-sodium chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Add Pasta: Add the broken pieces of lasagna noodles to the crock pot and stir gently to distribute them evenly.
  5. Cook the Soup: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the noodles are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  6. Add Ricotta Cheese: Once the noodles are tender, stir in the ricotta cheese thoroughly until it melts and incorporates into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
  7. Finish with Mozzarella: Before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each serving to add a melty, cheesy finish.

Notes

  • You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
  • For a thicker soup, use less chicken broth or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
  • Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version, but adjust seasoning to add more flavor if needed.
  • Gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve texture.

Keywords: Crock Pot, Lasagna Soup, Italian Soup, Slow Cooker Recipe, Comfort Food, Hearty Soup, Ground Beef, Italian Sausage

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