This Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup is like a cozy hug in a bowl! Packed with pasta, meat, and creamy cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly nights.
Honestly, the best part is how easy it is—just toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it! I love serving it with some crusty bread to dip. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian twist.
Onion and Garlic: These provide great flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (1/2 tsp = 1 clove). For onions, shallots are also a great substitution!
Broth and Tomatoes: Beef broth gives a rich flavor, but feel free to use chicken broth or vegetable broth if preferred. Canned diced tomatoes can replace crushed tomatoes if you like more texture.
Pasta: Mafaldine adds great shape, but any short pasta like shells, rotini, or even broken lasagna sheets will also work beautifully.
Cream: Heavy cream makes it super rich, but you can swap it with half-and-half, milk, or even non-dairy milk like almond or coconut if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked in the Soup?
Adding pasta at the right time is key to achieving that perfect tenderness without mushiness. Here’s how to do it:
- Approximately 30 minutes before you plan to serve, break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly in the soup.
- Stir them into the soup, making sure they’re well submerged in the broth.
- Cover and cook on high for about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness. This way you’ll ensure the pasta is al dente and not overcooked!
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a comforting lasagna soup that’s creamy and full of flavor. Pair it with some fresh bread for a complete meal!
Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz mafaldine or broken lasagna noodles (or other wide, ruffled pasta noodles)
For the Creamy Finish:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Sour cream or ricotta, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time, and then it will cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Add in an additional 30 minutes at the end for cooking the pasta. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft, approximately 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain excess fat before moving on to the next step.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together so the flavors combine.
3. Let it Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. This will allow all the flavors to meld nicely!
4. Add the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before serving, break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them into the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the broth.
5. Finish Cooking the Soup:
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for another 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking!
6. Add Creamy Goodness:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the heavy cream or half and half. Mix well until the cheeses are melted, making your soup extra creamy!
7. Taste and Season:
Give your soup a taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can do wonders!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or ricotta for extra creaminess. Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
This Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup is a deliciously easy way to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna in a cozy soup form. Perfect any night of the week!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep an eye on cooking time as turkey may require a slightly shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk, which will also add a unique flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened up too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove before serving.
