CROCKPOT LASAGNA SOUP HEAVEN

I can still remember the aroma that filled my grandmother’s kitchen every Sunday. It was a symphony of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, the unmistakable scent of her famous lasagna. While I could never quite replicate her layered masterpiece (that was *her* domain!), I’ve found a way to capture that comforting flavor in a much simpler, even more weeknight-friendly dish: Crockpot Lasagna Soup! Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Crockpot Lasagna Soup you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Fall Head Over Heels for Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love lasagna? But sometimes, the thought of layering all those noodles, sauces, and cheeses can feel a little daunting, especially after a long day. That’s where this Crockpot Lasagna Soup swoops in to save the day. It’s the ultimate comfort food, delivering all the familiar flavors of lasagna in a warm, cozy, and incredibly easy-to-make soup. Trust me; once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your household. This is comfort food redefined, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

The Beauty of Slow Cooking

The beauty of using a crockpot is that it allows all the flavors to meld and deepen over time. Think of it as a flavor sauna for your ingredients! The slow, gentle cooking process transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just dump everything in, set it, and forget it (until dinner time, of course!).

The Ultimate Crockpot Lasagna Soup Recipe

Alright, let’s dive into the good stuff! This recipe is tried and true, and I’ve perfected it over the years to ensure maximum flavor and ease. I promise, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can nail this recipe. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, or a mix!), removed from casings
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds a depth of flavor that you don’t want to skip!
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now!
3. Transfer to Crockpot: Transfer the cooked sausage, onion, and garlic mixture to your crockpot.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth (or beef broth), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir well to combine. The mixture will look a little watery now, but trust me, it will thicken up beautifully as it cooks.
5. Add Noodles: Stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Make sure they are submerged in the liquid to prevent them from sticking together.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The noodles should be tender, and the soup should have thickened slightly.
7. Stir in Cheeses: Just before serving, gently stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Be careful not to over-stir, as you want to keep some of the ricotta in clumps for that classic lasagna texture.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth!

Success Tips for Crockpot Lasagna Soup Perfection

Okay, now for the insider secrets that will take your Crockpot Lasagna Soup from good to *absolutely phenomenal*. These are the little things I’ve learned over the years that make all the difference.

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: This is crucial! Overcooked noodles will turn to mush. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time and adjust accordingly. If you’re using high heat, start checking them around the 2.5-hour mark.
• Brown the Sausage Well: Taking the time to properly brown the sausage adds so much depth of flavor to the soup. Don’t rush this step! Get a nice, crispy crust on the sausage for the best results.
• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will greatly impact the flavor of the soup. I recommend using a good brand of crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce for the best taste.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced carrots, celery, or zucchini. Add them along with the onion and garlic for a heartier soup.

Variations and Adaptations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Lasagna Soup is how versatile it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian Lasagna Soup

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, for added flavor and nutrients.

Spicy Lasagna Soup

If you like a little heat, use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onion and garlic for an extra kick.

Creamy Lasagna Soup

For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the ricotta cheese. This will add a luxurious richness to the soup.

Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. You can find these at most grocery stores. Make sure to check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Lasagna Soup is a complete meal in itself, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Add a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to the rich soup.
• Top with Extra Cheese: Because, why not? A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or mozzarella cheese is always a good idea.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or oregano adds a pop of color and freshness to the soup.

Comparing to Other Soup Recipes

While I adore this Crockpot Lasagna Soup, I also love exploring other comforting soup recipes. For instance, if you’re craving a lighter, brighter flavor, you might enjoy a bowl of ROASTED TOMATO SOUP. The roasting process intensifies the tomato flavor, creating a truly unforgettable soup. Or, for a heartier, more traditional option, you can’t go wrong with CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP. Those fluffy dumplings are just pure comfort in a bowl! Another great choice is the CREAMY TORTELLINI SOUP. That soup comes together really quickly and is also a great family pleaser. If you’re looking for a kick of spice, the CAJUN CHICKEN SOUP will hit the spot with a burst of flavor! And, if you’re already a fan of the lasagna flavors but want something quicker than the crockpot, try the regular LASAGNA SOUP. Finally, if you’re looking for an even quicker alternative you can check out another LASAGNA SOUP recipe, they all have their own nuances and bring something special to the table!

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it’s simple, straightforward, and packed with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying soup. The use of Italian sausage, crushed tomatoes, and aromatic herbs gives it that classic lasagna taste, while the ricotta and Parmesan cheese add a creamy, cheesy goodness. And the broken lasagna noodles provide the perfect texture, making it a truly comforting and enjoyable meal.

Plus, let’s be honest, using a crockpot is just incredibly convenient. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen. You can simply dump everything in, set it, and forget it. And when you come home, you’ll be greeted by the most amazing aroma and a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my ultimate recipe for Crockpot Lasagna Soup. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. I’m confident that it will become a new family favorite, just like it has in my home. The ease of the crockpot combined with the comforting flavors of lasagna make this soup a winner every time. Enjoy!

Crockpot Lasagna Soup Heaven

Amelia

Enjoy the comforting flavors of lasagna in a warm and cozy soup, made effortlessly in your crockpot. This recipe combines Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and cheeses for a hearty and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a simple, flavorful, and incredibly easy way to enjoy lasagna without the fuss.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian-American

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Crockpot (slow cooker)
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Can opener
• Ladle
• Bowls for serving

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Italian sausage sweet or hot, or a mix!
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth for a richer flavor
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping, optional

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Transfer the cooked sausage, onion, and garlic mixture to your crockpot.
• Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth (or beef broth), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
• Stir in the broken lasagna noodles. Make sure they are submerged in the liquid.
• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The noodles should be tender, and the soup should have thickened slightly.
• Just before serving, gently stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Be careful not to over-stir, as you want to keep some of the ricotta in clumps.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, brown the sausage well to develop a deep flavor. Don’t overcook the noodles, check them towards the end of cooking time. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference. This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating. For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the ricotta cheese. Customize with other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.