This Slow Cooker Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a fun twist on your classic lasagna! It features tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness all simmered together. Yum!
Who needs layers when you can just scoop? I love how easy it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Plus, the leftovers taste just as good—if there are any! I like to top mine with extra cheese and some fresh herbs for a little something special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works great for this soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken would be good substitutes. Plant-based ground meat can also be used for a vegetarian version.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are fantastic here, but feel free to use any pasta shapes you have on hand. Egg noodles or even whole wheat pasta can easily replace them. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creamy richness. If it’s not available, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. I actually like to mix in a little cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will work well. Fresh herbs can always bring a brighter flavor, too!
How Do You Make Sure the Noodles Don’t Get Overcooked?
Getting the noodles just right is crucial for this soup. Here’s how to ensure perfectly cooked noodles:
- Cook them separately if you’re worried about overcooking—just add them in right before serving.
- If adding directly to the slow cooker, don’t put them in until about 30 minutes before you plan to eat. This way, they stay al dente.
- Keep an eye on them and taste a piece to see if they’re done to your liking.
Following these tips will give you a soup that’s hearty and comforting, without mushy noodles!
How to Make Slow Cooker Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles or lasagna-style pasta broken into pieces
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 20 minutes for prep time, plus 6-7 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Allow about 30 extra minutes towards the end for adding the noodles and letting them cook until tender. So, perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly—about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked, make sure to drain any excess fat so your soup isn’t greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker. Now add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (don’t forget those juices!), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine everything.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This will let all the flavors meld together for a rich and comforting soup.
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, if you’re cooking on low, turn the heat up to high. Stir in the broken lasagna noodles and make sure they’re fully submerged in the soup. Cover it again and cook for another 20-30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
After the noodles are cooked, gently stir in the ricotta cheese. This will create those creamy pockets in your soup that are just heavenly!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for that pop of color and flavor! Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side if you like.
Enjoy your cozy, cheesy Slow Cooker Ground Beef Lasagna Soup! It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly, just like you would with ground beef.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a rich flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm it up in the microwave or on the stove. If it gets too thick, you can add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes really well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
