This Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup is the ultimate comfort food! It’s packed with all your favorite lasagna flavors like cheese, pasta, and rich sauce, but made easier in a warm, cozy soup.
You won’t believe how quick it is to throw together! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic. I love topping mine with extra cheese—because who can resist that? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds great flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a meatless version, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute!
Beef Broth: For a lighter soup, use low-sodium or vegetable broth. Homemade broth is also a great choice if you have time. It adds richness you’ll love.
Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are essential for the base. You can also use diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture or add in tomato puree for extra smoothness.
Pasta: Broken lasagna noodles give the classic touch! If gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Cheeses: Ricotta and mozzarella are key for creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try cashew cheese or a vegan cheese blend. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Noodles Are Cooked Just Right?
Cooking noodles in the slow cooker can seem tricky. The key is timing. You want them to be tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Add the broken noodles about 30 minutes before serving. This gives them just enough time to soften without overcooking.
- Make sure to stir them in well with the other ingredients so they are evenly coated.
- If you like a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth a bit before adding the noodles.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked noodles that hold up nicely in your creamy soup!
Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
- For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Pasta and Cheese:
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
Time Needed
This Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup requires about 10 minutes for preparation and then it’s ready to cook for 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The perfect hands-off meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, while the onions become soft. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat so your soup isn’t greasy!
2. Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, just until it’s fragrant. This step boosts the flavor of your soup. After your garlic is fragrant, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker
Now it’s time to transfer that delicious beef mixture into your slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, and then sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all those flavors!
4. Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. It’s a great time to relax while your kitchen fills with a tasty aroma!
5. Add Noodles
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, toss in the broken lasagna noodles. Make sure to stir everything well, then cover and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
6. Stir in the Cream and Cheese
Once your noodles are cooked, it’s time to add some creamy goodness! Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream until everything is melted and beautifully creamy.
7. Final Touches
Give it a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. This soup should be full of flavor!
8. Serve Up
Dish up your soup hot, topping each bowl with extra mozzarella, a dollop of ricotta or sour cream if you like, and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a lovely finish. Yum!
9. Enjoy!
Pair your creamy lasagna soup with some crusty bread for a comforting meal that everyone will love. Bon appétit!
This soup brings all the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna into a delicious and cozy bowl perfect for any day!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work just as well, making the soup lighter while still delivering delicious flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly in the skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
What Are Good Gluten-Free Substitutions for the Noodles?
For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the broken lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta or even use spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option! Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the zucchini doesn’t become too soft.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth. For protein, consider adding beans or lentils, and perhaps some chopped vegetables for added texture and nutrition.