Name: Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489071H57M13S
Total time: PT-489071H57M13S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 Parmesan cheese rind (optional); 8 ounces dried lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces (8 to 10 sheets); 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; Torn fresh basil leaves

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that practically makes itself? Look no further than this Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup! With its rich flavors and minimal effort required, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for busy weeknights or cozy weekends with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Amazing flavors that mimic traditional lasagna without all the layering and baking.
Quick and easy prep time – simply brown the beef, dump everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
Perfect for meal prep – this soup freezes beautifully and makes for a satisfying meal anytime.

Ingredient Notes:

For the soup:

Lean ground beef: Adds protein and richness to the soup.
Kosher salt & black pepper: Seasonings for flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory base for the soup.
Marinara sauce: Adds depth and tomato flavor.
Onion & garlic: Aromatic ingredients that enhance the overall taste.
Italian seasoning: Infuses the soup with classic Italian flavors.
Parmesan cheese rind (optional): Adds a subtle umami richness.
Dried lasagna noodles: Mimics the taste and texture of traditional lasagna noodles.

For serving:

Mozzarella cheese: Melty and cheesy topping.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy and indulgent addition.
Fresh basil: Adds a pop of freshness to each bowl.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Brown the ground beef in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan rind.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles.
Serve hot with a dollop of ricotta, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and torn basil leaves.

Helpful Tips:

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with zucchini noodles.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

For a richer soup, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this soup with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or a simple green salad makes for a perfect accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker? Yes, simply simmer the ingredients in a large pot until the flavors meld together.
Can I add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the soup? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite veggies.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
Can I omit the cheese for a dairy-free version? Of course, the soup is still flavorful and delicious without the cheese.

Conclusion:

Warm up with a bowl of Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup and enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a comforting and convenient way. Don’t forget to share your feedback and tag us in your creations!