Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe
Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the comforting flavors of lasagna into a hearty, warming soup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is made in a slow cooker, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over several hours. With layers of rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and savory sausage, it’s a dish that will satisfy both the soul and the stomach.
This recipe captures the essence of traditional lasagna while simplifying the cooking process. Instead of laboriously layering pasta and cheese, you simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. This means more time to relax or tackle other tasks, while still enjoying a gourmet meal. The soup is filled with al dente pasta, flavorful ground meat, and a medley of vegetables, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone in the family will love.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
– Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Ease of Preparation: With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for those hectic days when you need a hearty meal without the hassle.
2. Flavorful and Comforting: The blend of herbs, spices, and cheeses creates a comforting taste that warms you from the inside out.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer more vegetables or a different type of protein.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well and can be portioned for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
5. Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, pasta-filled nature of the soup appeals to even the pickiest eaters, making it a hit with families.
Ingredients Notes
– Pasta: Use traditional lasagna noodles, broken into pieces, or any short pasta like rotini or penne.
– Cheese: For the best flavor, use a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste significantly.
– Protein: Ground beef, turkey, or sausage can be used based on your preference.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked meat to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
4. Add Pasta and Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken pasta and stir well. Then, dollop in ricotta cheese and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Cover and let cook until the pasta is tender.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Storage Options
– Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
– Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheeses and non-dairy milk in place of traditional cheeses.
– Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is an excellent option for anyone seeking comfort food without the fuss. It brings together the beloved flavors of lasagna in a warm, hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and customizable nature, it’s sure to become a family favorite in your home. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness any night of the week!