If you have ever wished for a cozy, comforting meal that tastes like your favorite Italian classic without all the fuss, then this Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture all the rich, savory flavors of lasagna transformed into a warm, hearty soup that you can set and forget in your slow cooker. The combination of tender beef, fragrant herbs, tender noodles, and a melty cheese blend creates a soul-satisfying dish that’s perfect for any chilly day or whenever you crave that comforting Italian flare. This recipe truly elevates the idea of comfort food into a simple, effortless delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing its own delicious role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and the luscious cheesy goodness that makes this soup shine. From the robust tomatoes and fresh herbs to the trio of cheeses, everything comes together to make magic in your crock pot.
- Ground beef: The hearty base giving rich flavor and satisfying protein to the soup.
- Medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to soften.
- Garlic cloves: Provide that unmistakable aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- Crushed tomatoes: Bring a vibrant, slightly chunky texture and tangy tomato essence.
- Tomato sauce: Adds smooth tomato flavor to create the perfect broth consistency.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor, making it rich and robust.
- Chicken broth: Creates the savory soup base, melding all ingredients beautifully.
- Dried basil and oregano: Classic Italian herbs that infuse fragrant earthiness.
- Red pepper flakes: Offer a subtle heat to gently balance the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor.
- Uncooked lasagna noodles: Broken up for chewy, tender bites throughout the soup.
- Cream cheese: Adds creamy texture and smoothness when melted in.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy cheese perfection.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers sharp, nutty undertones for depth.
- Ricotta cheese: Boosts creaminess and adds a luscious finishing touch.
- Fresh basil (optional): A fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens the soup visually and in flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef over medium heat in a large skillet, breaking it apart until it’s browned and cooked through. This step adds a savory backbone to your soup with deep meaty flavor.
Step 2: Transfer Beef and Sauté Onions
Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from getting greasy, then move the beef to the crock pot. Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent and soft, which creates a sweet, mellow flavor base.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the softened onions and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Garlic gives a bright, aromatic layer that makes the soup sing.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Transfer the garlic and onions to the crock pot along with the ground beef. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, then add chicken broth. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to infuse every spoonful with classic Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Cook
Break the uncooked lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the crock pot, ensuring they submerge in the liquid. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the noodles are tender, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 6: Stir in the Cheeses
Finish by stirring in the cubed cream cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup, followed by shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted, then fold in the ricotta cheese for that signature creamy texture.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you want to amp up the flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for a vibrant, fresh contrast to the rich soup.
How to Serve Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or even a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese can brighten both the look and taste of this luscious soup. You might also love a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few torn fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crispy breadsticks for dipping. A light mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the rich, cheesy intensity of the soup perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine this soup served in mini bread bowls for an inviting presentation at gatherings, or topped with a dollop of ricotta and a magnetic swirl of basil pesto. For a fun twist, sprinkle toasted pine nuts for added texture and nutty flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent your fridge from soaking up those savory aromas.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the noodles may absorb more liquid or soften slightly upon thawing, but the cozy flavors will still be there to enjoy for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to maintain the creamy texture without curdling the cheeses. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and still pairs wonderfully with the robust tomato sauce and cheesy components of the soup.
Do I have to break the lasagna noodles or can I use small pasta shapes instead?
Breaking the noodles helps keep the authentic lasagna feel, but you can substitute small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or mini shells if you prefer.
Is it possible to make this soup in an instant pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an instant pot by sautéing the beef and onions using the sauté function, then pressure cooking everything together with the noodles for about 7 minutes.
Can I make this vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding mushrooms or lentils provides a satisfying, hearty texture.
What’s the best way to keep the cheeses from clumping?
Adding cream cheese first and stirring thoroughly helps create a smooth base. Gradually adding shredded cheeses while stirring gently prevents clumping and achieves that perfect creamy consistency.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free dinner or a new crowd-pleaser, this Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe is a treasure. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with all the bold Italian flavors you love, yet easy enough for any busy weeknight. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover just how comforting a bowl of cheesy lasagna soup can be!
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Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 6h 0m
- Total Time: 6h 15m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Crock Pot Cheesy Lasagna Soup combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of slow cooking. Ground beef, tomatoes, and Italian herbs simmer all day alongside broken lasagna noodles, then finish with a creamy blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta for an indulgent, comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheeses
- 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
Optional Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain and transfer beef: Drain any excess fat from the beef and transfer it to the crock pot.
- Sauté onion: Add the diced onion to the same skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Cook garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add aromatics to crock pot: Transfer the cooked onion and garlic to the crock pot with the beef.
- Add tomato components: Pour the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste into the crock pot with the meat and vegetables.
- Pour in broth: Add the chicken broth to the crock pot, stirring everything together to combine.
- Season the soup: Sprinkle in the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Add noodles: Break the uncooked lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the crock pot, stirring to ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
- Slow cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.
- Melt cream cheese: Once the soup is finished cooking, stir in the cubed cream cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Add shredded cheeses: Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until both cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy.
- Incorporate ricotta: Stir in the ricotta cheese, mixing until well combined and the soup has a creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving for an added touch of flavor and color.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy lasagna soup hot, and enjoy a comforting, hearty bowl of deliciousness!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces helps them cook evenly in the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth by 1 cup.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat, or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Fresh basil added at the end brightens the flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
