Lasagna Soup Crockpot is a cozy, hearty dish that captures all the delicious flavors of classic lasagna with a simple twist. Imagine layers of tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, ground beef or sausage, melted cheese, and Italian herbs, all mingling together in a warm, comforting soup. It’s like having lasagna in a bowl, with less fuss and more ease.
I love making this soup on busy days when I want a meal that feels homemade without standing over the stove for hours. Just toss everything into the crockpot, let it do its thing, and by dinnertime, your kitchen smells amazing and your hunger is ready to be satisfied. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something filling and soothing.
One thing I enjoy is serving the lasagna soup with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Sometimes I add a slice of crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up every last bit. It’s a great way to enjoy the familiar lasagna taste in a new, easy form that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: I like mixing both for a richer flavor, but just beef or turkey sausage works great too. For a vegetarian option, swap with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Tomatoes: Crushed and diced canned tomatoes add body and texture. If fresh tomatoes are in season, use peeled and chopped for a fresher taste.
Lasagna Noodles: Breaking noodles into bite-sized pieces is simpler to eat. Feel free to use gluten-free noodles if needed, but cook times might vary slightly.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan create that classic lasagna flavor. Ricotta on top adds creaminess but is optional if you prefer a lighter dish.
How Do You Add Noodles without Them Getting Mushy in the Slow Cooker?
Noodles can easily become overcooked in slow cookers, so timing is key.
- Add noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Break them into small pieces for quicker cooking.
- Stir gently after adding noodles to avoid breaking them too much.
- Keep the lid on to retain heat and steam for perfect noodle texture.
This method keeps noodles tender but not mushy, making every spoonful satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – perfect for cooking the soup low and slow without needing attention.
- Large skillet – to brown the meat and sauté onions before adding to the crockpot.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the soup and browning the meat.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your broth and seasonings just right.
- Cheese grater – if you prefer freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicier, herby kick.
- Add chopped spinach or kale near the end for a boost of greens and color.
- Try adding mushrooms cooked with the meat for extra earthiness.
- Stir in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like some heat in your soup.
How to Make Lasagna Soup in a Crockpot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, then 3 to 7 hours of cooking time depending on your crockpot setting (3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low). Adding the noodles near the end takes about 30 minutes. So plan ahead for a warm, hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Veggies:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step adds rich flavor.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Transfer your cooked meat and veggies into the crockpot. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, dried basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well.
3. Slow Cook the Soup:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, to let all the flavors meld beautifully together.
4. Add Noodles and Finish Cooking:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Cover and cook on high until the noodles are tender, usually 25-30 minutes. Keep the lid on while cooking to help the noodles cook evenly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and a dollop of ricotta cheese if you like. Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of freshness. Serve with crisp crackers, garlic bread, or a light side salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your warm, comforting lasagna soup made effortlessly in your crockpot!
Can I Use Frozen Meat for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed meat for even cooking and browning. If using frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking to avoid excess moisture and uneven cooking.
Can I Substitute Different Pasta for Lasagna Noodles?
Yes! You can use broken rigatoni, penne, or rotini if you prefer. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking and adjust timing as needed to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Replace the meat with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for a fully vegetarian-friendly version.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup as noodles tend to absorb liquid over time.