Crockpot Lasagna Soup: The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food

There are some dishes that just wrap you in a warm, comforting embrace, and Crockpot Lasagna Soup is unequivocally one of them. Imagine all the rich, hearty flavors of a classic lasagna tender ground beef or savory Italian sausage, a robust tomato sauce, and a luscious, creamy cheese topping transformed into an effortlessly delicious and deeply satisfying soup. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and tastes that will make your weeknights feel like a special occasion without any of the fuss. If you’ve ever yearned for the complexities of a layered lasagna but cringed at the thought of the prep time, then this slow cooker marvel is about to become your new kitchen hero. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings, busy schedules, or simply when you crave something truly soul-satisfying. Let’s dive into how this incredible Crockpot Lasagna Soup can revolutionize your dinner routine, bringing gourmet comfort right to your table with minimal effort.

This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is designed for modern living. It allows you to front-load most of the work, letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting of simmering and melding flavors to perfection. The result? A rich, savory, and incredibly fragrant soup that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours because it has! The beauty of the slow cooker method is how it tenderizes the meat, deepens the tomato base, and infuses every spoonful with an undeniable warmth. With just a quick stir-in of pasta and an optional sprinkle of fresh spinach towards the end, you’re mere minutes away from serving a masterpiece. And don’t forget the crowning glory: a creamy, dreamy blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella that melts into the hot soup, creating that signature lasagna indulgence. Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that delivers big on flavor and ease, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe

You’re going to fall head over heels for this Crockpot Lasagna Soup, and for a multitude of reasons that extend far beyond its incredible taste. First and foremost, it’s the epitome of convenience. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome, homemade meal can feel like an Olympic sport. This recipe takes the stress out of dinner, allowing you to simply combine your ingredients in the morning or early afternoon, set it, and forget it. The slow cooker handles all the simmering and melding of flavors, meaning you walk into a house filled with the irresistible aroma of Italian comfort food, ready to be enjoyed with minimal last-minute effort. It truly is an easy weeknight dinner solution that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste.

Beyond convenience, the flavor profile of this slow cooker lasagna soup is nothing short of spectacular. It captures the essence of classic lasagna in every spoonful. The combination of seasoned ground beef or Italian sausage with rich crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a medley of Italian herbs creates a deeply savory and complex base. The long, slow cook time allows these flavors to truly meld and intensify, resulting in a depth that rapid cooking simply can’t achieve. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tangy tomato, savory meat, and perfectly tender pasta, all elevated by the luxurious, cheesy ricotta topping.

It’s also incredibly versatile. While the recipe calls for ground beef or Italian sausage, you can easily adapt it to your preferences. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms. Prefer a different type of pasta? Rigatoni or penne can work too, though lasagna noodles truly give it that authentic feel. The optional spinach adds a pop of color and extra nutrients, but it’s completely customizable. This adaptability ensures that the Crockpot Lasagna Soup can be tailored to suit various dietary needs or simply your mood on any given day. This recipe truly delivers the hearty, comforting goodness you crave without the arduous layering and baking process of traditional lasagna. It’s comfort food simplified, perfected, and ready to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Just imagine serving up bowls of this deliciousness on a cold evening – pure bliss!

Why You Should Try This Recipe for Crockpot Lasagna Soup

If you’re seeking a dish that consistently delivers on taste, convenience, and sheer comfort, then adding Crockpot Lasagna Soup to your rotation is a must. One of the primary reasons to embrace this recipe is its undeniable ability to make dinner time easier and more enjoyable. Forget standing over a hot stove or wrestling with multiple baking dishes. This one-pot lasagna soup (mostly!) streamlines the cooking process, freeing up your evenings for family, hobbies, or simply relaxing. The initial browning of the meat and sautéing of aromatics takes mere minutes, and from there, your trusty slow cooker does all the work. It’s an ideal recipe for busy parents, working professionals, or anyone who appreciates a delicious meal without the culinary acrobatics.

Beyond convenience, this hearty lasagna soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The familiar, beloved flavors of lasagna are universally appealing, making this soup a fantastic option for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Even picky eaters are often won over by its rich tomato base, savory meat, and comforting pasta. The individual dollops of creamy ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese on top allow everyone to customize their serving, ensuring a personalized touch that elevates the entire experience. It’s a dish that invites seconds, fosters warmth around the dinner table, and leaves everyone feeling satisfied.

Furthermore, this Crockpot Lasagna Soup is incredibly budget-friendly and makes excellent use of pantry staples. Ground beef, canned tomatoes, broth, and pasta are all relatively inexpensive ingredients that often go on sale, allowing you to create a substantial and flavorful meal without breaking the bank. It’s also fantastic for meal prep. A big batch of this soup yields plenty of leftovers that reheat beautifully, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the second-day soup even more delightful. Say goodbye to sad desk lunches and hello to a gourmet experience in your own home. Trying this recipe means embracing a smart, delicious, and incredibly satisfying way to feed yourself and your loved ones, proving that sophisticated flavors can come from the simplest methods.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Crafting a truly spectacular batch of Crockpot Lasagna Soup begins with selecting quality ingredients and ensuring you have the right tools at your disposal. While the slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, a few essential items will make your preparation seamless and guarantee the best results. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting classic.

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: This is the foundation of your savory soup. Ground beef offers a classic, mild flavor, while Italian sausage (mild or hot, depending on your preference) adds a delightful fennel and spice kick. Choose lean ground beef (85-90%) to minimize excess grease. If using sausage, consider removing it from its casings for easier browning.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Onions provide a foundational aromatic sweetness that deepens as it cooks. Chop it into roughly 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces so it softens and disperses evenly throughout the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is non-negotiable for that authentic Italian flavor. Freshly minced garlic will give you the best aroma and taste, but pre-minced garlic from a jar can work in a pinch for convenience. Add it towards the end of the onion cooking to prevent burning.
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste: This concentrated tomato product is a powerhouse of flavor. It adds richness, depth, and a slight sweetness that enhances the entire soup base. Don’t skip this; it’s key to that robust tomato flavor.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The primary tomato component, crushed tomatoes provide a smooth yet hearty consistency. Look for good quality crushed tomatoes, ideally San Marzano style, for the best flavor.
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth: Broth forms the liquid base of your soup. Beef broth will contribute to a richer, meatier flavor, while chicken broth offers a lighter, more versatile foundation. Low-sodium varieties allow you to control the salt content more precisely.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A pre-blended mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, Italian seasoning is your secret weapon for instant Italian flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: While included in Italian seasoning, an extra dash of dried basil enhances the sweet, peppery notes characteristic of Italian cuisine.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Aromatic and earthy, oregano is crucial for that classic lasagna taste. Its bold flavor holds up well during long cooking times.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors. You may need to adjust this at the end, depending on the saltiness of your broth and personal preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and balances the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper offers the best aroma.
• 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-3 inch pieces: These are what make it “lasagna” soup! Breaking them ensures they fit into the slow cooker and are easy to eat. Regular lasagna noodles work best; oven-ready varieties might become too soft.
• 3-4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional): Spinach adds a lovely green color, a touch of freshness, and extra nutrients. It wilts down significantly, so don’t be afraid to add a generous amount.

For Serving (The Cheesy Topping!):

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese: This creamy, slightly sweet cheese is a signature component of lasagna. It provides a luxurious texture and balances the savory soup.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Salty, nutty, and savory, Parmesan cheese adds a vital layer of flavor. Use freshly grated for the best taste.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and mild, mozzarella contributes to the gooey, comforting texture of the topping. Whole milk mozzarella melts beautifully.

Necessary Utensils and Tools:

• 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker: This is the star of the show! A 6-quart capacity is ideal for this recipe to ensure all ingredients fit comfortably and cook evenly.
• Large skillet: You’ll need this for browning the meat and sautéing the aromatics before transferring them to the slow cooker. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works well.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For breaking up the meat as it browns and stirring ingredients in both the skillet and the slow cooker.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient quantities, especially for the seasonings and broth.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
• Colander: Essential for draining excess grease from the ground beef or sausage after browning.
• Medium mixing bowl: For combining the ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese topping.
• Ladle: For serving the hot Crockpot Lasagna Soup into individual bowls.
• Serving bowls: Of course, for enjoying your delicious creation!

Having these tools and fresh ingredients on hand will ensure your Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a resounding success, packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Crafting Your Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Making Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a remarkably straightforward process, but following these detailed steps and incorporating a few key tips will ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time. Get ready to create a meal that will become a cherished family favorite, bringing the deep, rich flavors of classic lasagna to your table with minimal fuss.

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

1. Prepare your skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to warm up for a minute or two.
2. Brown the ground meat: Add 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage to the hot skillet. Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat into small, even pieces as it cooks. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain excess grease: Once the meat is thoroughly browned, carefully drain off any excess grease. This is crucial for preventing your soup from being overly oily. You can use a colander, or simply tilt the skillet and spoon out the fat.
4. Sauté the onion: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped yellow onion to the same skillet (no need to clean it – the residual flavor from the meat is a good thing!). Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush this step; properly softened onions contribute greatly to the overall flavor.
5. Add the garlic and tomato paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll notice the tomato paste deepening in color and becoming fragrant. This step, known as “blooming” the tomato paste, intensifies its flavor significantly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in your Crockpot Lasagna Soup.

Step 2: Assemble and Slow Cook the Soup Base

3. Transfer to slow cooker: Carefully transfer the cooked beef, onion, garlic, and tomato paste mixture from the skillet into your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
4. Add remaining liquid and seasonings: To the slow cooker, add the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5. Mix thoroughly: Using a large spoon or ladle, stir all the ingredients together really well until everything is fully combined. Ensure the tomato paste is fully incorporated into the liquid.
6. Cover and cook: Place the lid firmly on your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to be simmering gently. The longer cook time on low often results in a richer, more developed flavor, making your slow cooker lasagna soup truly shine.

Step 3: Add Noodles and Spinach (Final Stages)

6. Add broken lasagna noodles: Approximately 30-45 minutes before you plan to serve, remove the lid from the slow cooker. Stir in the 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-3 inch pieces. Make sure the noodle pieces are mostly submerged in the hot liquid to ensure they cook evenly.
7. Continue cooking: Re-cover the slow cooker and continue to cook until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Cooking time for noodles in a slow cooker can vary slightly based on the noodle type and your slow cooker’s heat, so check for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
8. Stir in spinach (optional): If you’re using fresh spinach, stir in the 3-4 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. The heat of the soup will quickly wilt the spinach, adding a vibrant color and fresh touch without overcooking it. This also makes your Crockpot Lasagna Soup even more nutritious!

Step 4: Prepare and Serve the Cheesy Topping

8. Combine cheese mixture: While the noodles are cooking, prepare your luscious topping. In a medium bowl, combine the 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix gently with a spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want a lovely, cohesive blend.
9. Ladle and garnish: Once the soup is ready, ladle generous portions of the hot Crockpot Lasagna Soup into individual serving bowls.
10. Top with cheese: For each serving, add a generous dollop of the prepared cheese mixture right into the center of the hot soup. The heat will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delightful creamy layer.
11. Garnish and serve: If desired, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can also add a nice finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying Crockpot Lasagna Soup!

Following these steps will lead you to a triumphant meal that showcases the best of slow cooking: rich flavor, tender textures, and absolute ease. Enjoy every spoonful!

Tips and Variations for Your Crockpot Lasagna Soup

While the classic Crockpot Lasagna Soup recipe is perfect as is, there are many ways to customize it to your taste, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are some tips and variations to make this easy lasagna soup recipe even more your own, along with advice to avoid common pitfalls.

Ingredient Alternatives and Specific Versions:

• Vegetarian/Vegan Lasagna Soup:
  • Meat Substitute: For a vegetarian version, omit the ground meat. Instead, brown 1-2 cups of sliced mushrooms (cremini or button work well) with the onion and garlic. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed lentils or a cup of cooked brown rice along with the crushed tomatoes for extra heartiness.
  • Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.
  • Cheese Topping: For a vegan option, use a high-quality cashew-based ricotta substitute, along with vegan Parmesan and mozzarella shreds. Nutritional yeast can also be stirred into the soup for a cheesy flavor boost.
• Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup:
  • Simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles. Many brands offer delicious GF versions that hold up well in soup. Ensure all other ingredients (broth, spices) are certified gluten-free if cross-contamination is a concern.
• Protein Power-Ups:
  • Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer lighter meats, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in this soup. Brown them just as you would ground beef.
  • Sausage Variations: Experiment with different types of Italian sausage sweet, hot, or even chicken sausage for varying flavor profiles.
• Vegetable Boosts:
  • Beyond spinach, consider adding diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or zucchini along with the onions for extra nutrients and color. Add heartier vegetables like carrots earlier in the cooking process.
  • Stir in a handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley along with the spinach for a burst of fresh herb flavor at the end.
• Spice Level Adjustments:
  • For more heat, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning. If using hot Italian sausage, this might be enough for a pleasant kick.
• Creamier Texture:
  • For an even creamier soup, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Don’t overcook the noodles: This is probably the most common mistake. Lasagna noodles can become mushy if cooked for too long in the slow cooker. Add them only during the last 30-45 minutes and check for doneness. They should be al dente, meaning tender but with a slight chew. Different brands and thicknesses of noodles will cook at slightly different rates.
• Ensure noodles are submerged: When you add the broken lasagna noodles, make sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid. If too many noodles are sticking out, they won’t cook evenly and will be hard. Stir them gently to ensure even distribution.
• Drain the fat: Properly draining the grease from the ground meat is essential. Skipping this step will result in a greasy soup that lacks the clean, rich flavor you’re aiming for.
• Don’t skip the browning step: While this is a “crockpot” recipe, the initial browning of the meat and sautéing of the onions, garlic, and tomato paste on the stovetop is crucial. This step builds foundational flavors and textures that simply won’t develop if you just dump everything raw into the slow cooker. It’s worth the extra 10-15 minutes!
• Season to taste: While the recipe provides measurements for salt and pepper, always taste your soup before serving and adjust as needed. Broth saltiness varies, and personal preferences differ. A final pinch of salt can really make the flavors pop.
• Consider your slow cooker’s heat: Every slow cooker cooks slightly differently. Newer models often cook hotter than older ones. If you know your slow cooker runs hot, you might lean towards the shorter end of the cooking time ranges.

By keeping these tips in mind, your Crockpot Lasagna Soup will be a consistently delicious and stress-free success, perfectly tailored to your liking. Enjoy the process of creating this comforting dish!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Crockpot Lasagna Soup isn’t just a delicious and comforting meal; it also offers a range of nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome addition to your weekly menu. While specific nutritional values can vary based on ingredients used (e.g., lean ground beef vs. sausage, types of broth), we can estimate and highlight the general benefits.

Estimated Nutritional Values (per serving, approximately 6 servings):

Please note: These are approximations and can vary significantly. For precise values, it’s best to use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories. This can be lower if using leaner meats or less cheese.
• Protein: Around 30-40 grams. This soup is a fantastic source of protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety.
• Fats: Roughly 20-30 grams. This includes saturated and unsaturated fats from the meat and cheeses. Choosing leaner ground beef can reduce saturated fat content.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams. Primarily from the crushed tomatoes, onions, and especially the lasagna noodles.
• Fiber: 4-6 grams. The tomatoes, onions, and especially the optional spinach contribute to the fiber content, which aids digestion.
• Sodium: Varies widely depending on broth and canned tomato choices (use low-sodium versions to control this).
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in Vitamin C (from tomatoes), Vitamin K (from spinach), Iron (from meat and spinach), Calcium (from cheese), and Potassium.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both are excellent sources of protein, providing essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues. They also supply iron (vital for oxygen transport in the blood) and B vitamins (important for energy metabolism). Choosing leaner cuts of beef can reduce saturated fat intake.
• Tomatoes (Crushed Tomatoes, Tomato Paste): Tomatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers. They also provide Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium. The cooking process, especially with a bit of fat, actually enhances the bioavailability of lycopene, making this soup an effective way to absorb this beneficial compound.
• Garlic and Onion: Beyond their incredible flavor, garlic and onions contain sulfur-containing compounds and antioxidants. These have been associated with immune-boosting properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and cardiovascular benefits. They add depth to the Crockpot Lasagna Soup while contributing to your well-being.
• Spinach (Optional but Recommended): This leafy green is packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent source of Vitamin K (important for bone health and blood clotting), Vitamin A (for vision and immune function), Vitamin C, and folate. Spinach also provides iron and antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition for a nutritional boost.
• Cheese (Ricotta, Parmesan, Mozzarella): These cheeses are good sources of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. They also provide protein and some healthy fats. Ricotta is often lower in fat than other cheeses while still offering a creamy texture. Parmesan adds a salty, umami kick, and mozzarella contributes to that satisfying melty texture.
• Broth (Beef or Chicken): While primarily liquid, broths provide hydration and contain minerals extracted from the bones and vegetables they are simmered with. Using low-sodium broth is advisable to control overall sodium intake.

In summary, Crockpot Lasagna Soup is more than just a comforting dish. It’s a well-rounded meal that provides significant protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and beneficial antioxidants. It’s a hearty option that fuels your body while satisfying your cravings for delicious, classic flavors. Enjoy this nourishing and delightful soup, knowing you’re getting a wholesome meal that’s easy to make!

FAQs about Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Crockpot Lasagna Soup

And there you have it: a comprehensive guide to creating the most comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy Crockpot Lasagna Soup. We’ve journeyed through why this slow cooker marvel is poised to become a staple in your kitchen, from its unparalleled convenience that frees up your evenings to its deeply satisfying flavors that rival any traditional lasagna. This recipe truly embodies the spirit of hearty comfort food, delivering a rich tomato base, savory ground meat, tender pasta, and a luscious cheesy topping all in one convenient bowl.

We’ve detailed every ingredient, explored the essential tools, and walked through each step of the cooking process, ensuring your success. Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker enthusiast or new to the world of hands-off cooking, this slow cooker lasagna soup recipe is designed to be foolproof. The tips and variations section empowers you to customize this dish to your heart’s content, whether you’re making it vegetarian, gluten-free, or just adding extra veggies. Plus, knowing the nutritional benefits of each component means you can feel good about serving a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. For another comforting meal, consider trying this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, which also delivers on flavor and ease.

This Crockpot Lasagna Soup isn’t just about dinner; it’s about simplifying your life without sacrificing taste or quality. It’s about creating those warm, memorable moments around the dinner table, sharing a truly satisfying meal with minimal stress. The rich aroma filling your home, the tender noodles, the savory sauce, and that irresistible, gooey cheese topping it’s all part of the magic. So, why wait? Grab your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to delight your taste buds with this sensational Crockpot Lasagna Soup. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your experiences in the comments below, and let us know how this comforting dish brings warmth and joy to your home. Happy cooking!

Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Enjoy all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in an easy, one-pot soup, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal fuss.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American, Italian-American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 6-quart Slow Cooker
• Medium Bowl

Ingredients

  

Soup Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 8-10 lasagna noodles broken into 2-3 inch pieces
• 3-4 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped (optional)

For Serving

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage), breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Transfer the beef, onion, garlic, and tomato paste mixture to a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
• Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce is simmering nicely.
• About 30-45 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Ensure they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Re-cover and continue to cook until the noodles are tender, but still have a slight bite (al dente).
• If using, stir in the fresh spinach during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, until wilted.
• In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix gently.
• Ladle the hot Lasagna Soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be tender with a slight bite. This soup freezes well without the cheese topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 2-3 months in the freezer.

Keyword comfort food, crockpot, easy, lasagna, slow cooker, weeknight meal