This Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup brings all the yummy flavors of lasagna into one cozy bowl. With tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, it’s a hug in a dish!
You’ll love how easy it is; just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic! I can’t help but smile when I smell it cooking all day—so comforting! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds rich flavor to the soup. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version!
Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes give a robust base. If you don’t have them, use tomato sauce or diced tomatoes and mash them slightly. They’ll still work nicely!
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles create that classic texture. No lasagna noodles? Try broken spaghetti or any other pasta type; just adjust cooking times as needed.
Heavy Cream: This adds a creamy texture. For a lighter option, consider half-and-half or even whole milk, but the soup will be less rich. Non-dairy creamers also work for a vegan twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are staples for flavor. If you want something different, use a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone or even cheddar for a unique touch.
How Do You Get Creamy Texture in Soup?
To achieve that velvety texture, the key is in the timing and method of adding ingredients. Here’s how to make it perfectly creamy:
- First, cook your base well, letting the flavors develop for several hours in the slow cooker.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add your broken lasagna noodles. This allows them to cook and absorb some liquid.
- Finally, mixing in the heavy cream and cheeses at the end creates that creamy finish! Stir gently over low heat until the cheese melts completely. Taste and tweak seasonings as needed.
Enjoy your lovely and creamy lasagna soup—a perfect comfort food for any day!
Slow Cooker Creamy Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
For the Creamy Finish:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and then let your slow cooker do the work! Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. Plus, you’ll need about 30 minutes more to cook the lasagna noodles just before serving. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep it nice and light.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the beef mixture into your slow cooker. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Season with salt and pepper, then give it a good stir to mix everything together.
3. Slow Cook the Soup:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together!
4. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, take your broken lasagna noodles and stir them into the soup. This will make them soften and soak up all the flavors.
5. Creamy Finish:
Cover again and continue to cook on high for another 30 minutes, until the noodles are tender. After that, stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. This is the magical step that makes the soup creamy and cheesy!
6. Final Touches:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if you think it needs more salt or pepper. When everything is just right, serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil!
7. Enjoy!
Pair with some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to keep you warm and cozy. Enjoy your deliciously creamy lasagna soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute that will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may need slightly less cooking time, so watch it closely while browning.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, you could use coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer, but be aware that this might alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen even more as it sits! To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if needed.
What If I Don’t Have Lasagna Noodles?
No worries! You can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as broken spaghetti or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta types may require varying amounts of time to cook.