Get ready to cozy up with a big bowl of Crockpot Lasagna Soup—it’s like your favorite Italian comfort food, but even easier to make! This delicious soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna without the hassle. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with savory ingredients and can simmer away while you tackle your day.
What Makes Lasagna Soup So Great?
Did you know that 70% of people say soup is their go-to comfort food during chilly seasons? Lasagna Soup combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker. You’ll love how the simple ingredients meld together to create a heartwarming meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to whip up this delightful soup:
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey (I prefer turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes (petite diced for a smoother texture)
- 1 6 oz can tomato paste
- 3 cups beef broth (go for low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake)
- 1 12 oz can V8 vegetable juice (adds flavor and nutrients)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced small
- 2 cloves garlic, diced (add more if you’re a garlic lover!)
- 1 .7 oz packet Italian dressing mix (check for low sodium options)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (cavatappi, rotini, or macaroni work great)
- 1 cup water (to add with the pasta)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mozzarella and/or Parmesan cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Base:
- In your slow cooker, start by mixing together the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. This combination forms the soup’s rich and flavorful base. The tomatoes provide acidity and sweetness, while the paste adds thickness and depth. Stir well to ensure they’re fully combined.
2. Add the Ingredients:
- Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the slow cooker. Since we’re using ground turkey for a leaner option, there’s no need to brown it beforehand—just crumble it into the mixture.
- Pour in the beef broth, which adds a savory depth to the soup. Then, add the V8 vegetable juice for a flavorful boost and some added nutrients.
- Include the diced onion and garlic, which will infuse the soup with aromatic flavors as they cook. Finally, sprinkle in the Italian dressing mix and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Set the Slow Cooker:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on Low for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you can, let it simmer for longer; the longer it cooks, the more intense the flavors will be.
4. Pasta Time:
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, it’s time to add the uncooked pasta. This is where the soup transforms into a hearty meal! Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like cavatappi or rotini.
- Pour in 1 cup of water to help cook the pasta and ensure it doesn’t absorb too much of the soup’s liquid. Stir everything together to make sure the pasta is submerged in the broth.
5. Final Touches:
- After 30 minutes, check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and/or Parmesan cheese. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese, adding a creamy, delicious finish.
Additional Tips
- Texture Adjustments: If the soup is thicker than you like, feel free to add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Enhancements: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes when you add the ground meat. For an extra layer of flavor, fresh basil or parsley can be stirred in just before serving.
What to Serve With Lasagna Soup
This hearty soup is perfect on its own, but it loves a good companion. Serve it alongside Toaster Oven Garlic Bread or homemade Garlic Knots. A fresh salad adds a nice crispy contrast, and I often include roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli cooked in my Crockpot Express. It makes for a complete, satisfying meal!
Notes and Tips
- Nutritional Information (calculated using 95% lean ground beef and excluding cheese):
- Calories: 163
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 556mg
- Fiber: 2g
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Lasagna Soup is not only easy to make, but it also warms you up from the inside out. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty yet simple. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, knowing a comforting meal awaits you at the end of the day.
So why not gather your ingredients, set your Crockpot, and enjoy a delightful meal that will warm your soul?
Happy cooking!