This Slow Cooker Ground Beef Lasagna Soup is a warm, comforting meal that combines all the flavors of lasagna in a bowl! It’s easy to make and perfect for busy nights.
The best part? You just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work! I usually add some cheesy garlic bread on the side for dipping. Yum! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is best for less grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try swapping in ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier twist.
Onion: A yellow onion adds sweetness, but you can use white or red onions too, depending on what you have. Shallots work great as well for a milder taste.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are fantastic, but feel free to use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version. Just break them into smaller pieces as directed!
Cheeses: I’m a fan of the combination of Parmesan and ricotta for creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, look for dairy-free cheese options that melt well, or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter soup.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in This Soup?
The secret to a delicious lasagna soup lies in layering flavors. Start by browning the ground beef with onions; this brings out the savory taste. Don’t rush the process; let it cook until the beef is nicely browned. This builds your base flavor.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings toward the end. You can add more salt or spices as needed.
- When adding the noodles, make sure to leave the lid off. This helps them cook quicker and prevents them from becoming mushy.
- For a fresh element, add your herbs at the end of cooking. This preserves their color and flavor.
Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process, so have fun with it!
Slow Cooker Ground Beef Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup requires about 15 minutes of prep time and will need 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. You’ll have a rich and hearty meal ready to enjoy without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the beef and onion mixture, cooking for another minute until it becomes fragrant. This adds a lovely aroma to your soup!
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked meat mixture to the slow cooker. Here, we’ll build our flavor base.
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling a bit spicy!). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Let it Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours; that’s all it takes to develop those delicious flavors.
6. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles to the slow cooker and give it a good stir. This helps the noodles cook through evenly.
7. Finish Cooking:
Cook uncovered until the noodles are tender, which should take about 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure they don’t become too soft.
8. Stir in Cheese:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed to ensure it’s just right!
9. Serve Up:
Serve the soup hot, topped with dollops of ricotta cheese, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an extra touch. Don’t forget a little more Parmesan on top if you like! Enjoy your warm and hearty Slow Cooker Ground Beef Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary based on the type of meat you choose.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance! Just cook it as directed and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be good alternatives. They will slightly change the flavor, but the soup will still be delicious!
How to Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an extra 1-2 broken lasagna noodles or a tablespoon of tomato paste during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also reduce the amount of broth you use initially for a heartier texture.
