Crockpot Lasagna Soup

There’s something truly magical about transforming a classic comfort food into an effortless soup. This crockpot lasagna soup delivers all those beloved flavors. It’s layers of savory richness, all simmered to perfection. Your busy weeknights just got a whole lot cozier and more delicious.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic fall. It quickly became a family favorite. Making this slow cooker lasagna soup is so simple. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a hearty, fuss-free meal that tastes like it simmered all day.

Why I Love This Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Honestly, this crockpot lasagna soup is my superhero meal. Why? For starters, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Simply toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic. The flavor is incredible—rich, savory, and oh-so-comforting. Plus, it practically tastes like real lasagna! It’s also wonderfully versatile. You can easily adapt it to your taste.

Crockpot Lasagna Soup Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients for this Crockpot Lasagna Soup feels like assembling a dream team. Each element plays a crucial role. They come together to create that unmistakable lasagna essence in a comforting bowl.

Here’s what makes this slow cooker lasagna soup so special:

• Ground Italian Sausage: This is our flavor powerhouse. It brings that classic savory, fennel-infused taste. Turkey sausage works great too for a lighter option.
• Yellow Onion and Garlic: Our aromatic foundation. They build complexity and a warm, inviting aroma as they soften.
• Italian Seasoning and Red Pepper Flakes: These herbs and spices are the soul of the soup. They give it that hearty, Italian flair and a gentle warmth.
• Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: These form the rich, tangy base. They create a flavorful, luscious broth for our noodles.
• Beef Broth: This adds depth and a robust savory note. It helps tenderize the pasta beautifully.
• Lasagna Noodles: The star! Broken into pieces, they absorb all the wonderful flavors. They become tender pasta pillows in this delicious soup.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This gives us that gooey, cheesy finish we all love. It melts perfectly into the warm soup.

Substitutions and Tips

Feel free to customize this easy lasagna soup! For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken or vegetable broth works well. Don’t have Italian seasoning? Just use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Remember, all exact quantities are in the printable recipe card below. This recipe freezes beautifully too, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

How to Make Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Whipping up this Crockpot Lasagna Soup is easier than you think. Following these steps ensures a flavorful, comforting meal every time. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve lasagna taste in a soup. Let’s get started on this delicious slow cooker lasagna soup.

Browning the Sausage and Aromatics

Grab a medium skillet first. Spray it lightly with cooking spray. Add your Italian sausage and diced onion. Cook over medium heat. Break up the sausage as it browns. Cook until the onions look soft and clear. This usually takes about five to seven minutes total. This step builds a rich flavor foundation for our soup.

Building the Flavor Base

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning. Don’t forget the crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper, too. Give everything a good stir now. Now, carefully transfer this savory mixture to your crockpot. It’s almost time for the magic to happen.

Slow Cooking the Soup

Pour the petite diced tomatoes into the crockpot. Add the smooth tomato sauce next. Pour in the beef broth. Stir all ingredients together well. Make sure everything is nicely combined in the pot. Cover your crockpot. Cook on HIGH for three to four hours. Alternatively, cook on LOW for four to six hours. This slow cooking melds the flavors wonderfully.

Adding the Lasagna Noodles

About thirty minutes before you plan to serve, add the noodles. Break your lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. These handy pasta bits will soak up all that yummy broth. Stir them into the soup. Cover the crockpot again. Continue cooking on HIGH for thirty more minutes. This ensures the noodles are perfectly tender.

Finishing Touches

The best part is almost here! When the soup is ready, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Watch it melt into gooey perfection. This step gives our soup that classic cheesy lasagna feel. Serve this hearty crockpot lasagna soup warm. Consider adding your favorite toppings like fresh basil or a dollop of ricotta cheese. It truly elevates this easy lasagna soup.

Print

How to Store Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Once this delightful Crockpot Lasagna Soup has cooled slightly, storing leftovers is a breeze. For optimal flavor and texture, transfer any remaining soup into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about three to four days. I find this slow cooker lasagna soup is just as tasty, if not better, the next day!

Planning to freeze some? That’s a smart move! Let the soup come completely to room temperature first. Then, pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can stay frozen for up to two to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating is simple. Gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. If it has thickened too much, you can add a splash more beef broth or water. Enjoy your delicious crockpot lasagna soup again!

Tips for Success

• Brown thoroughly: Sautéing the sausage and onions well adds deep flavor.
• Submerge noodles: Ensure lasagna noodles are covered in liquid before cooking.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Add them near the end to prevent mushiness.
• Taste and adjust: Feel free to tweak seasonings to your liking.
• Adjust spice: Use more or fewer red pepper flakes for your preferred heat.

Making this crockpot lasagna soup is wonderfully straightforward. You likely have most of these kitchen essentials already.

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: Your main workhorse.
• Medium Skillet: For browning the meat and veggies.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping.
• Spoon/Spatula: For stirring and serving.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• A simple side salad brightens the meal.
• Garnish with fresh basil.
• Top with ricotta or Parmesan cheese.
• Enjoy with a glass of robust red wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crockpot Lasagna Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare almost all of this crockpot lasagna soup the day before. Just brown the sausage mixture. Then, combine it with the liquids in the crockpot. Reserve adding the noodles and cheese until you’re ready to reheat and serve. This makes busy weeknights even easier!

What kind of sausage is best for Crockpot Lasagna Soup?

Classic Italian sausage, whether mild or hot, is wonderful. It provides a fantastic flavor base. For a lighter option, ground turkey Italian sausage is a great substitute. You can even use a combination of both!

How do I thicken my Crockpot Lasagna Soup if it’s too thin?

No worries if your slow cooker lasagna soup seems a bit thin! Before adding the noodles, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water). Alternatively, let the soup simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to reduce. The noodles also absorb liquid as they cook, naturally thickening the soup.

Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes. Consider ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even penne. Just make sure the pasta cooks fully in the final 30 minutes. Always keep an eye on it to prevent it from getting mushy in this hearty easy lasagna soup.