This hearty lasagna soup combines creamy ricotta and gooey cheese for a warm, comforting dish. It’s like lasagna but easier – all cooked in one pot!
Who doesn’t love a meal that tastes like a hug? I enjoy topping mine with fresh basil and crusty bread. It’s the perfect cozy dinner, and the slow cooker does all the work! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Ground beef gives a nice hearty flavor, but you can swap it for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I like using Italian sausage for extra spice and flavor!
Lasagna Noodles: Any pasta can work here. Instead of lasagna noodles, try using broken pieces of penne or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is key for that lasagna feel. If you want to switch things up, cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute, or even a vegan ricotta for a dairy-free option.
Broth: Low-sodium broth is essential to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth can be used too if you want a vegetarian version.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for the Soup?
Getting the right texture is crucial for a satisfying soup. Start by cooking your meat and onions in a skillet; this adds depth to the flavor. Once combined in the crockpot, let it simmer gently to meld all those tasty flavors.
- After the initial cooking time, add broken lasagna noodles. Stir them in gently so they cook evenly.
- Cover and let the noodles cook for 20-30 minutes—this helps them soak up the flavors without getting mushy.
- Finally, stir in ricotta cheese at the end for creaminess without losing its shape.
Crockpot Cheesy Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into smaller pieces
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks for 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in your crockpot. Adding the noodles at the end takes about 30 minutes, so plan for a cozy evening with aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Once done, drain any excess fat.
2. Set Up the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked meat mixture to the crockpot. Now, add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it gets!
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir them into the soup. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
5. Stir in the Ricotta:
Once the noodles are cooked, turn off the crockpot and gently stir in the ricotta cheese. If you want, save a little for garnishing your soup later!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a dollop of ricotta cheese. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread!
Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of cheesy lasagna soup! It’s perfect for sharing on a chilly evening.
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef or Italian sausage is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure everything is fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No worries! If you’re out of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese as a lighter alternative, or even a thick yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Vegan ricotta options are also great for a dairy-free version!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving; you may need to add a splash of broth or water for consistency.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!