Name: Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-497393H27M34S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 6 ounces bulk mild Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 32 ounces low-sodium chicken broth; 24 ounces marinara sauce; 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 15 ounces ricotta, at room temperature; 1 cup shredded mozzarella, approx. 4 ounces, at room temperature; ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

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Crockpot Lasagna Soup is the warm, comforting dish that every busy home cook dreams of. Rich and cheesy, it provides all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the layering fuss that often deters a last-minute meal. If you’ve ever craved hearty Italian flavors but didn’t have the time or patience to assemble lasagna, this soup is your new go-to. With a soothing blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, tomatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s the perfect solution for those chilly evenings when the thought of cooking feels daunting.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Lasagna Soup

I first stumbled upon this delicious recipe during a cozy winter gathering with friends. We were in need of a meal that could be prepped in advance, and this one pot wonder emerged as the ultimate crowd-pleaser. As we gathered around the table, bowls steaming, laughter echoed as each bite transported us back to Italian kitchens. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its comforting taste but also in its straightforward preparation. With a little chopping and some patience while it simmers away in the Crockpot, you’ll end up with a meal that feels nothing short of gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Throw everything in the Crockpot and let it work its magic—about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 on high.
Irresistible Flavor: A savory mix of beef, sausage, aromatic spices, and melty cheese creates a luscious soup experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Top each serving with a dollop of cheesy goodness that makes every bowl inviting.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a family dinner, a potluck with friends, or even meal prep for the week.
Diet-Friendly Options: With a few tweaks, make it gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles or choose turkey for a leaner option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil: A light oil like olive oil adds richness and flavor to the meat without overpowering it.
1 pound ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a savory, hearty base; it’s essential for that classic lasagna flavor.
6 ounces bulk mild Italian sausage, casings removed: The Italian sausage brings a spicy kick. If you prefer milder flavors, use sweet sausage instead.
1 cup onion, finely chopped: Onions contribute sweetness and depth. Yellow or white onions are best, but red can also work!
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic goodness.
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes: Just a hint adds warmth—adjust based on your tolerance for spice.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A traditional herb in Italian cooking, its earthy flavor complements the soup beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing overall flavors when seasoning the ingredients.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground adds a sharp note contrasted with the richness of cheese.
32 ounces low-sodium chicken broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control saltiness while adding depth to the soup.
24 ounces marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce—this keeps the prep easy and flavorful.
8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Broken pieces mimic the traditional lasagna layers, making the soup distinctly hearty.
15 ounces ricotta, at room temperature: Creamy ricotta adds richness and a delightful creaminess.
1 cup shredded mozzarella, at room temperature: Gooey melted mozzarella is a must-have for that stringy cheese experience.
½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano: A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese adds a nutty flavor that cannot be substituted.

How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Heat the Oil and Brown the Meat: In a skillet over high heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add 1 pound ground beef and 6 ounces of Italian sausage. Cook without stirring until the meat sizzles and evaporates liquid, about 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until browned.
Cook Vegetables and Season: Add 1 cup of finely chopped onion, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Transfer to the Crockpot: If you’ve browned the meat in a skillet, drain excess fat. Transfer the mixture to the Crockpot and pour in 32 ounces of low-sodium chicken broth and 24 ounces of marinara sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
Set to Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours until flavors meld together.
Add the Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the 8 broken lasagna noodles. Cook on HIGH until the noodles are tender, roughly 25-30 minutes.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the noodles are cooking, combine 15 ounces of ricotta, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a generous scoop of the cheese mixture for a delightful finish that everyone will love.

Storing & Reheating

Allow any leftovers of your Crockpot Lasagna Soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat. Be aware that the noodles may soak up some broth while stored, so a splash of extra broth can refresh the texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid greasy soup, make sure to drain excess fat after browning the meat.
If using fresh noodles, adjust cooking time appropriately—check doneness regularly!
Always use room-temperature cheese for easier mixing and creamier texture when adding it to the soup.
Don’t skip the cheese topping; it elevates your soup to a new level of creaminess and flavor.
Experiment with vegetables by adding chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

There’s something so heartwarming about a bowl of Crockpot Lasagna Soup, effortlessly bringing people together around the table. Whether you’re serving up a feast for your family or impressing guests, the ease of preparation paired with rich, comforting flavors is what makes this dish a timeless favorite. I encourage you to make it your own—perhaps add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to fit your taste.

Bring home the essence of Italy and enjoy those fantastic flavors today!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef and Italian sausage with a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. For an extra protein boost, add lentils or chickpeas.

How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider adding more broken lasagna noodles, or puree some of the soup before serving. You could also stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

What should I serve with this soup?

Crockpot Lasagna Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a classic Caesar salad. It makes for a complete meal that satisfies all cravings!

Can I use other types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like ricotta, provolone, or even some grated cheddar for different flavor profiles. Each will offer a unique twist to this comforting dish.