Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of pure comfort! If you love the classic flavors of hearty lasagna but crave the ease of a warm, simmering soup, then you’ve found your new favorite recipe. This Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe brings all the delicious layers of a traditional lasagna into one incredibly simple, slow-cooked dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or anytime you need a comforting meal that practically makes itself. This easy Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is sure to become a staple in your home. Forget the fuss of layering noodles; this homemade Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Making the Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup at home has never been easier. This recipe is a dream come true for anyone seeking comfort food without the lengthy prep. It’s an easy Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup for beginners, yet delicious enough for seasoned cooks. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:
- Effortless Cooking: Just dump your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work!
- Incredible Flavor: All the rich, cheesy, tomatoey goodness of lasagna in every spoonful.
- Comfort Food Champion: Perfect for warming up on a cold day.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters love this soup!
- Great for Meal Prep: Makes delicious leftovers that are easy to reheat.
- Ready in just [INSERT COOK TIME (e.g., 4 hours on High or 6-8 hours on Low)]! (Note: Need the actual cook time value)
- An economical and hearty family dinner!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
To make this delicious Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. We’ve also included some common alternatives and dietary swaps for flexibility.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Mild or spicy, depending on your preference. (Alternatively, ground beef or turkey can be used.)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes: Look for high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth: Or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Bay leaf (optional, but adds depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-3 inch pieces: Essential ingredients for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup! You can use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free option.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Full-fat or part-skim.
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
LSI Keywords: Essential ingredients for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup, Best flour for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup (referencing the noodles), Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup spice blend.
How to Make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup – Step by Step
Making this Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and comforting meal.
How to Prepare the Sauce
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Transfer to Crock Pot
Transfer the cooked sausage, onion, and garlic mixture to a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Tomato Products and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Step 5: Season
Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the broth and sausage can be salty, so add salt cautiously at this stage.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Assembling the Layers (Lasagna Noodles and Cheese)
While the soup base is slowing cooking, prepare the cheesy mixture and the noodles. You will add these in the last stages of cooking.
Step 7: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, about half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve the other half for the top), and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper here if desired.
Step 8: Cook Noodles (Optional, but Recommended)
Some people add uncooked broken noodles directly to the soup, but for best texture and to prevent sticking, it’s recommended to lightly pre-cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until they are al dente (still slightly firm). Drain well. Alternatively, you can add the broken, uncooked noodles to the slow cooker during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking time. Monitor closely to ensure they don’t become mushy.
Step 9: Add Pre-Cooked Noodles to Soup
About 30-45 minutes before serving, carefully stir the broken, pre-cooked lasagna noodles into the soup base in the slow cooker. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
Step 10: Add Half the Cheese Mixture
Dollop about half of the ricotta cheese mixture into the soup, stirring it gently so that it is somewhat incorporated, but you still have pockets of cheese.
Step 11: Top with Remaining Cheese
Spoon the remaining ricotta cheese mixture onto the top of the soup. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the remaining grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 12: Melt the Cheese
Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook for the remaining 30-45 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Unlock the secrets to the most delicious Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup with these expert tips and tricks:
- Brown Your Meat Well: Don’t skip browning the Italian sausage. This adds a crucial layer of flavor to the soup base.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before adding salt. Canned tomatoes and broth can be salty, so season gradually. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Consider Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in the slow cooker, stirring in fresh basil and parsley just before serving brightens the flavor significantly.
- Spice it Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Creamier Texture: For an even creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
- Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach when you add the onion and garlic.
Search-Friendly Q&As:
- Can I make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup ahead of time? Yes! The soup base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Add the noodles and cheese just before serving.
- What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup? Using quality ingredients, browning the meat properly, and letting it slow cook to meld the flavors are key. Don’t overcook the noodles!
Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
The Best Way to Serve Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup is hot, with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and basil. Here are some perfect pairings to complete the meal:
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Extra Cheese: Offer extra grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or even a dollop of ricotta at the table for those who want to add more cheesy goodness.
- A Glass of Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs wonderfully with the tomato and sausage flavors.
- Occasions: Perfect for a casual family dinner, a comforting lunch, or a gathering with friends.
Nutritional Information for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
While nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, here are some estimated values for a typical serving of Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal per serving (This will vary greatly depending on sausage type, cheese amount, etc.)
- Protein: Approximately 25-35g
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
- Sodium: (Will vary greatly depending on broth and cheese used)
Disclaimer: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to calculate based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.
For a low-carb version of Crock Pot Cheagna Soup, you can omit the noodles and serve with shirataki noodles or spiralized zucchini instead. Be mindful that this will significantly alter the texture.
Storage & Leftovers
This Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe makes excellent leftovers. Here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. How long does Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup last in the fridge? It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup freezes well! Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace as liquid expands when frozen. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. The noodles might become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Best Reheating Methods:
- Stovetop: The best way to reheat Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup. Gently heat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it slightly if it has thickened.
- Microwave: Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave in microwave-safe bowls, heating in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
4 FAQs for Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup
Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup:
- Can I freeze Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup? Yes, you absolutely can! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
- What can I use instead of Italian sausage in Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup? You can substitute ground beef, ground turkey, or even a meatless crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Do I have to cook the lasagna noodles beforehand? It’s recommended to pre-cook them al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the soup, but you can add broken, uncooked noodles directly to the slow cooker during the last 30-60 minutes if you prefer.
- Can I make this spicier? Yes! Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup base.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There you have it – the Best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe that is both incredibly easy to make and bursting with all the comforting flavors you love about lasagna. This slow cooker sensation is perfect for those busy days when you crave a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich tomato base, savory sausage, perfectly cooked noodles, and melted cheesy topping create a truly unforgettable bowl of goodness.
Now that you know how to make the best Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup at home, we encourage you to give this recipe a try! Let us know in the comments below how it turned out for you. Did you add any fun variations? Share your experience! And if you loved this recipe, please consider sharing it with your friends and family on social media. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A comforting bowl of cheesy lasagna transformed into a hearty soup made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, browned and drained
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Beef Broth: 4 cups
- Dried Oregano: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Basil: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Lasagna Noodles: 8 ounces, broken into small pieces
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces
- Egg: 1 large
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, plus more for garnish
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, plus more for garnish
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic to the crock pot. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- While the soup is cooking, prepare the ricotta mixture by combining ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles.
- Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture into the soup and gently stir in the mozzarella cheese.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free option.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and omit ground beef.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For added flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Crock Pot, Cheesy Lasagna, Soup, Easy Recipe, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
