Lasagna Soup in the crockpot is like all the best parts of classic lasagna tucked into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. It’s filled with tender noodles, savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, all simmered together slowly to create cozy flavors that feel like a hug from the inside out.
I love how easy it is to throw everything into the crockpot and let it do its thing while I go about my day. The slow cooking helps everything blend beautifully, and the smells that fill the kitchen are just irresistible. Sometimes I add a little extra cheese on top at the end because, well, you just can’t have too much cheese, right?
Serving this lasagna soup with some crusty bread or garlic toast makes it feel like a full meal, perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying without a lot of fuss. It’s one of those recipes that everyone asks for again and again around here, and I’m always happy to make it because it feels like a special treat that’s also super simple to prepare.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef or Italian sausage: Either adds great flavor and protein. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. I like Italian sausage for its extra spices, but beef keeps it classic.
Crushed and diced tomatoes: These build the rich tomato base. If you prefer, use all crushed tomatoes for a smoother soup or fire-roasted ones for a smoky touch.
Lasagna noodles: Breaking them makes them noodle-sized for soup. You can swap in broken penne or rotini if that’s easier. Gluten-free noodles work too—just watch cooking time.
Cheese mix: Ricotta gives creamy dollops, mozzarella melts deliciously, and Parmesan adds sharpness. I mix them together, but fresh mozzarella can be a nice swap if you want gooey texture.
How To Cook the Noodles in the Crockpot Without Turning Them Mushy?
Adding noodles too early can make them mushy in slow cookers. Here’s my tip:
- Add noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking, whether using broken lasagna noodles or other pasta.
- Stir them in well and keep the lid on to trap steam, cooking just until tender.
- If you want firmer noodles, add them even later and check softness often.
- Using thicker pasta shapes helps them hold up better in slow cooking.
This way, your noodles stay perfect and don’t soak up too much broth, keeping your soup thick and hearty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – essential for slow cooking the soup and blending flavors without much effort.
- Large skillet – handy for browning the meat and sautéing onions before adding to the crockpot.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and scraping browned bits from the skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your broth, spices, and cheese just right.
- Mixing bowl – useful for combining ricotta, Parmesan, and parsley before topping the soup.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add spice and bold flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes for some green and extra nutrients.
- Use gluten-free noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb option.
- Top with shredded provolone or fontina cheese for a creamy twist.
Lasagna Soup Crockpot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz broken lasagna noodles or regular lasagna noodles broken into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna soup takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and brown the meat, plus 3-7 hours of cooking in the crockpot depending on the setting. Add 20-30 minutes at the end to cook the noodles, so plan for about 4 to 7 and a half hours total. Minimal effort, maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown Meat and Sauté Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and break the meat apart until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any extra fat, then transfer the meat mixture to your crockpot.
2. Combine Soup Ingredients:
Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes if you like a little kick, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together well, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours to let the flavors meld deliciously.
3. Add Noodles and Finish Cooking:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir the broken lasagna noodles into the crockpot. Cover again and cook until the noodles are tender, around 20-30 minutes.
4. Prepare Cheese Topping and Serve:
While the noodles cook, mix the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and parsley in a small bowl. When the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, add a dollop of the ricotta mixture on top, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. For a bubbly finish, you can briefly broil the bowls until the cheese melts and browns, or simply enjoy it as is!
This cozy lasagna soup brings all the hearty tastes of traditional lasagna into a warm, comforting crockpot meal that’s perfect any time you crave something filling and easy!
Can I Use Frozen Meat in This Crockpot Lasagna Soup?
It’s best to thaw the meat completely before browning it. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting to avoid uneven cooking and ensure food safety.
Can I Substitute the Lasagna Noodles with Other Pasta?
Absolutely! Broken penne, rotini, or even broken spaghetti work well. Just add them in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to avoid mushy noodles.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Prepare This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the soup base a day in advance and refrigerate it. Add the noodles and cheese toppings just before serving to keep noodles from getting too soft.
