Nothing lifts the spirits on a chilly evening like a bowl brimming with cheesy, savory richness that wraps you in comfort with every spoonful. With this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, I’ve taken all the best parts of classic lasagna—tangy tomato, hearty meat, tender noodles, and creamy ricotta—and let them mingle in one cozy, bubbling pot. There’s no tower of layered pasta to assemble or multiple pans to wash; instead, you’ll spend just 15 minutes prepping, then let the slow cooker work its magic for 6–7 hours on low (or 3–4 hours on high). By the time you walk in the door, your kitchen will smell like a homemade trattoria, and dinner will be ready to serve.
I still remember my first test run: tossing ground turkey, garlic, onions, and bell pepper into the skillet before transferring everything to the crock pot, then stirring in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and fragrant herbs. That evening, as the timer ticked down, the savory aroma drew everyone into the kitchen. When it was time to add broken lasagna noodles and the trio of cheeses, my family gathered around the slow cooker like kids waiting for hot chocolate. Each ladleful offered layers of flavor, from the rich tomato broth to the gooey cheese swirls—all in one bowl. If you’re craving a taste of Italian comfort food with hardly any fuss, this easy dinner recipe has your name on it.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CROCK POT LASAGNA SOUP
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients that play their part in creating layers of flavor and texture. In this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, each component—from the aromatic garlic to the creamy cheeses—works together to deliver that classic lasagna experience in soup form. Here’s what you need and why it matters:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Provides a hearty, savory backbone. Beef offers richness, while turkey gives a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing the acidity of tomatoes.
- Garlic: Infuses the broth with fragrant, aromatic notes that elevate every spoonful.
- Green Bell Pepper: Contributes a subtle crunch and fresh, vegetal sweetness.
- Diced Tomatoes: Creates a chunky, tangy base that contrasts beautifully with creamy cheeses.
- Tomato Sauce: Builds a smooth, cohesive broth that envelops every noodle.
- Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful liquid foundation, lightening the tomato profile and adding a gentle savory note.
- Dried Basil: Brings herbal warmth and a hint of sweetness reminiscent of Italian kitchens.
- Dried Oregano: Enhances the soup with a classic earthy, slightly peppery flavor.
- Salt: Balances all the ingredients, bringing out their natural tastes.
- Black Pepper: Offers a mild kick and complexity without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Lasagna Noodles: Broken into pieces, they mimic homemade lasagna noodles, adding satisfying chewiness.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creates a creamy, velvety texture when swirled into the hot soup.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey strands that make each bite irresistibly cheesy.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkles a sharp, nutty finish that brightens the overall richness.
- Fresh Basil: Garnishes the finished dish with vibrant color and a burst of fresh herbal aroma.
HOW TO MAKE CROCK POT LASAGNA SOUP
This step-by-step guide will walk you through turning simple pantry staples into a luscious, lasagna-inspired soup. With just a few bold moves in the skillet and the magic of your slow cooker, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready without hovering at the stove.
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until cooked through. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up any clumps. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat to keep the broth light and flavorful.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their sweet aroma.
3. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into the insert of a crock pot, spreading everything evenly across the bottom.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients into a unified base.
5. Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 6–7 hours (or high for 3–4 hours). Let the flavors meld and deepen as the soup simmers slowly.
6. About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the crock pot. Stir to ensure they’re fully submerged, then cover and continue cooking until the noodles are tender.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese until smooth and well blended.
8. Just before serving, swirl the cheese mixture into the hot soup. The residual heat will melt the cheeses into a creamy ribbon throughout the broth.
9. Serve the soup hot, topping each bowl with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a final pop of color and flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CROCK POT LASAGNA SOUP
When it comes to enjoying this hearty Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, the accompaniments you choose can elevate the meal from simple weeknight fare to a memorable dinner experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply treating yourself after a busy day, consider these pairing ideas to make each bite shine.
- Rustic Garlic Bread: Slice a baguette, brush it with olive oil and minced garlic, then toast until golden and crisp. The crunchy texture is perfect for dipping into the cheesy, tomato-rich broth.
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss baby greens with cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and a light balsamic vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic bite cuts through the soup’s richness for a balanced plate.
- Drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Right before serving, add a delicate swirl of high-quality olive oil. This finishing touch adds fruity depth and a luxurious sheen to each bowl.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For an added kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top. It wakes up your taste buds and adds a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses.
HOW TO STORE CROCK POT LASAGNA SOUP
Storing leftover Crock Pot Lasagna Soup properly ensures you can enjoy that lasagna-in-a-bowl goodness all week long. With the right containers and methods, you’ll keep the flavors bright and the textures just right, whether you’re refrigerating for a few days or freezing for future meals.
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool slightly at room temperature (no more than one hour), then transfer into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing: For longer storage, ladle cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags. Leave about an inch of headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Portioning: Divide the soup into individual serving containers before freezing. This makes defrosting quicker and ensures you only reheat what you need, preserving the rest for later.
- Reheating Tips: Whether from the fridge or freezer, reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to help the cheese swirl back into a creamy consistency.
CONCLUSION
From the very first stir of ground meat, vegetables, and herbs in the skillet to the final ribbon of melted cheeses and fresh basil, this Crock Pot Lasagna Soup delivers all the cozy, comforting flavors you crave in an effortless, hands-off slow cooker dinner. We’ve covered everything—from choosing the right mix of meat and vegetables to layering in Parmesan for that nutty finish—and guided you through each step, ensuring even beginners can create an Italian-inspired masterpiece. With just 15 minutes of prep, a few simple ingredients, and your trusty crock pot, you’ll transform busy weekdays into moments of pure comfort, gathering family and friends around a steaming pot of cheesy, tomato-rich goodness.
Feel free to print this article or save it to your recipe binder for a go-to easy dinner that ticks all the boxes: satisfying, flavorful, and totally hassle-free. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, cooking times, or storage. If you give this recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment with your tweaks, questions, or feedback. Your experience could help fellow home cooks turn this lasagna soup into their own comfort food staple!
Crock Pot Lasagna Soup
Description
Warm up with this hearty Crock Pot Lasagna Soup, blending savory ground meat, fresh veggies, and melty cheese into a delightful bowl of comfort that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
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Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to the insert of a crock pot.
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Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
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Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
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About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken pieces of lasagna noodles to the crock pot. Stir well, cover, and continue cooking until the noodles are tender.
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In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
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Just before serving, stir the cheese mixture into the soup until melted and well combined.
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Serve the soup hot, topped with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and a sprinkle of fresh basil for garnish.
Note
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs for a personalized flavor.
- This soup can easily be made vegetarian by substituting the meat with mushrooms or other vegetables.
- For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes.
- Try using whole-wheat lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
