Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a comforting and flexible meal that brings the classic flavors of lasagna into a warm, hearty soup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish allows you to enjoy the rich taste of lasagna without the hassle of layering noodles and cheese.
By using a slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld together while you attend to other tasks. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it delicious and nutritious.
Equipment Needed for Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
To prepare this delightful recipe, you will need a few essential kitchen tools.
First, a large skillet is necessary for browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. A slow cooker is obviously required for cooking the soup itself.
Lastly, have measuring cups and spoons, along with a sharp knife and cutting board, ready for your ingredients. This basic equipment ensures a smooth cooking process for your delicious lasagna soup.
What You Need to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon no-salt added Italian seasoning
- 1 quart low sodium beef broth
- 24 ounces good quality marinara sauce (about 3 cups)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 8 ounces dry lasagna noodles (about 9)
- 16 ounces reduced fat ricotta cheese (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
How to Cook Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Step by Step
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and add the lean ground beef. Cooking the meat requires breaking it apart into small pieces as it browns.
As the beef cooks, sprinkle on the kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, granulated garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking until the meat is nicely browned, which usually takes about five minutes. If there’s excess grease, feel free to drain it.
Once the meat is cooked, transfer it to the slow cooker. Now, add the kosher salt, low sodium beef broth, good quality marinara sauce, and tomato paste. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors blend well.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for about 3 to 4 hours or low for 4 to 5 hours. You want the soup to reach a strong simmer as it cooks.
While the soup simmers, prepare the cheese mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and freshly grated parmesan cheese. If you aren’t using it immediately, cover the bowl and refrigerate.
After the soup has been cooking for a while and is nicely simmering, take the dry lasagna noodles and break them into 4 to 5 pieces each. Add these pieces to the slow cooker and stir them in well. Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes until the noodles are cooked to your liking.
Once the noodles are ready, add half of the ricotta mixture and the baby spinach into the soup. Stir everything together to combine. It’s also a good idea to taste the soup at this stage and adjust any seasonings if needed.
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of the remaining ricotta mixture.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Serving Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a breeze. Ladle generous portions into bowls, ensuring each bowl gets a good mix of noodles, meat, and vegetables. The dollop of ricotta on top adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor.
For added flair, you might consider garnishing with some extra freshly grated parmesan cheese or even fresh basil if you have it on hand. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also enhances the taste.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
To complement your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, consider pairing it with classic Italian sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
Garlic bread is another excellent choice. It adds a crunchy texture and is perfect for dipping into the soup. You might also serve it with slices of crusty Italian bread, which can be enjoyed alongside.
For a hearty meal, you could even offer ricotta-stuffed breadsticks. This way, everyone can enjoy those delicious lasagna flavors in different forms.
How to Store Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Proper storage of your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can help keep it fresh for future meals. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container.
Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing. When frozen in a suitable container, it can last for about 2 to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
When preparing Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, consider these helpful tips for the best outcome. First, always use good-quality marinara sauce since it significantly affects the soup’s flavor.
Feel free to customize the soup by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, which can enhance the taste further. Additionally, remember to break the lasagna noodles before adding them to ensure they cook evenly.
Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, but be careful not to over-salt, especially since the broth and marinara already contain sodium.
Finally, when serving, a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish and make it look more appealing.
Variation
This recipe is versatile, so you can make a few changes based on your preferences. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth adds depth without the meat. You can also swap the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
If you want a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for that extra heat. This way, you can make the dish unique to your taste.
Best Time to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is an excellent dish for any time of year. However, it’s particularly comforting during the colder months when people crave warmth and hearty meals.
Making this soup on a busy weeknight is ideal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to set it and forget it. It’s also perfect for meal prep, giving you delicious leftovers for busy lunches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure your soup turns out perfectly. One mistake is cooking the noodles too long, which can lead to mushiness.
Always check their doneness towards the end of cooking time. Another mistake is not browning the meat first, which adds essential flavor to the overall dish.
Also, be cautious with salt, particularly if you are using salted broth or sauce. Lastly, remember to stir the soup occasionally as it cooks for even flavor distribution.
Nutritional Notes
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can be a nutritious choice if you make mindful ingredient choices. Using lean ground beef provides protein while keeping fat content lower. The addition of spinach boosts fiber and vitamins.
If you replace some ingredients with lighter alternatives or more vegetables, the overall calorie count can drop. It’s a flexible dish that can suit various dietary needs.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to serve.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a fantastic option for anyone looking for an easy and delicious meal. With its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients, it has everything you could want in a dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you will love every comforting bowl!
