Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! This comforting dish mimics the flavors of traditional lasagna while being incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup is packed with rich flavors and a delightful mix of cheese. Its versatility allows you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
• Rich Flavor: Enjoy all the classic lasagna tastes without the fuss.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap out proteins or add extra veggies according to your preference.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Great for meal prep; delicious reheated the next day!
• Family-Friendly: A sure hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals without constant monitoring.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precision when chopping ingredients, leading to even cooking.

this recipe

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup:

Protein and Broth

• 2 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for ground turkey)
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey

Vegetables

• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes

Seasonings

• 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)

Pasta 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: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, fully cook the ground beef. Drain any excess grease before transferring it to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the cooked beef to the slow cooker insert. Then mix in:
1. Diced onion
2. Minced garlic
3. Chicken broth or vegetable broth
4. Marinara sauce
5. Diced tomatoes
6. Dried basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, rosemary, and red pepper flakes

Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Cook on Low or High

Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.

Step 4: Add Noodles Towards End of Cooking Time

When there are about 30 minutes left in cooking time, stir in broken lasagna noodles. Cover and continue cooking until noodles are done to your liking (about 30-45 minutes).

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

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

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

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 your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a delightful experience, as it is not only comforting but also versatile. You can enhance its presentation and flavor by pairing it with a variety of toppings and sides.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice color and freshness.
• Basil leaves: Whole basil leaves can infuse an aromatic touch to the soup.

Top with Cheese

• Extra mozzarella: Melting additional mozzarella on top right before serving creates a delicious cheesy layer.
• Parmesan shavings: Freshly shaved parmesan offers a salty kick that complements the flavors beautifully.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a hearty accompaniment that soaks up the soup.
• Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks are perfect for dipping and add a fun element to the meal.

Create a Salad Bar

• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness that contrasts well with the warm soup.
• Mixed greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens can offer a refreshing side that balances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can elevate it from good to unforgettable. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your soup turns out just right.

• Use quality broth: A flavorful chicken or vegetable broth enhances the overall taste significantly.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh or dried herbs are essential for adding depth; they brighten up every spoonful.
• Cook noodles separately if needed: If you prefer firmer noodles, cook them separately and add them just before serving.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper after cooking; flavors develop over time.
• Consider adding vegetables: Incorporating spinach or zucchini boosts nutrition and adds color to your dish.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps deepen the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Complementing your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every bit of soup.
2. Caesar Salad
   This classic salad features romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan, adding crunch and freshness.
3. Caprese Salad
   Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide vibrant flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables make for a nutritious addition alongside your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until tender can enhance your meal’s nutritional value while adding color.
6. Pasta Salad
   A light pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette pairs well by offering contrasting textures and flavors.
7. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats (substitute turkey if desired) makes for an enticing starter.
8. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil gives a fresh bite that complements the rich lasagna soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and results.

• Using uncooked noodles: Adding raw lasagna noodles directly can lead to a mushy texture. Always break them into pieces and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too much can prevent even cooking. Ensure you have enough space for ingredients to blend well and cook evenly.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings mid-cooking can result in bland soup. Always sample your dish and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
• Not browning the meat: Skipping browning the ground beef can make the soup less flavorful. Always cook your meat beforehand to enhance its taste before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Neglecting liquid levels: Using too little broth can lead to a thick mixture instead of a soup. Make sure you follow the liquid guidelines for a well-balanced consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that reduces fat while still providing good flavor.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor!

What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?

You can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I freeze leftovers of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Yes! Just make sure it’s stored properly in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, making every batch unique. Give this hearty soup a try, and enjoy all its rich flavors!

Print

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Warm up with our delightful Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, a comforting and hearty dish that captures the essence of traditional lasagna in a simple, easy-to-make soup. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, showcasing rich flavors and a delicious blend of cheeses. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully over time. This soup is highly customizable—feel free to swap proteins or add your favorite veggies. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 8 lasagna noodles broken into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

---

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until cooked through. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and all seasonings to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in broken lasagna noodles and cover until they are tender.
5. Once done, stir in balsamic vinegar and grated parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve topped with mozzarella, ricotta cheese, and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (Low)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use quality broth for enhanced flavor. Feel free to add spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Cook noodles separately if you prefer them firmer.