This Crockpot Cheesy Ricotta Lasagna Soup is a warm and cozy dish packed with tasty flavors. You’ll enjoy creamy ricotta, savory tomatoes, and tender noodles all mingled together!
Who needs a fancy dinner when you can have this easy soup? Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic! I love topping mine with extra cheese because, well, more cheese is always better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. I often use extra-lean ground beef, making it a bit healthier while still being flavorful!
Broth: Low-sodium beef broth helps control the saltiness of your soup. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth works great as a substitute without losing too much flavor.
Cheeses: Ricotta gives the creamy texture that feels like a traditional lasagna. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using tofu blended with nutritional yeast as a ricotta replacement.
Lasagna Noodles: Feel free to swap in gluten-free lasagna noodles or use smaller pasta shapes like shells or rotini if they’re what you have on hand.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Lasagna Noodles in a Soup?
Cooking lasagna noodles in your crockpot can be tricky, but it’s simple with a few steps. Broken noodles expand and become soft quickly when added at the right time.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the broken noodles to ensure they don’t overcook and get mushy.
- Stir gently after adding the noodles and check for tenderness after 20 minutes.
- If using a different pasta, adjust the time based on the package recommendations, often 10-15 minutes less than lasagna noodles.
Crockpot Cheesy Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Cheesy Layer:
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into large pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 20 minutes to prep and then you’ll let your crockpot work its magic for 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. Be sure to add the lasagna noodles about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. Total time: Around 6.5 hours if cooking on low, but mostly hands-off cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and crumbled—about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your soup light and healthy.
2. Adding Aromatics:
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together until the onion has softened and becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step adds wonderful flavors to your soup!
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Once the beef and onions are ready, transfer them to your crockpot. Add in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine!
4. Slow Cooking Time:
Now it’s time for the crockpot to work its magic! Cover it and let the soup cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. You can relax and let those flavors meld together!
5. Adding the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Give it a gentle stir and re-cover the pot. This will ensure the noodles cook just right without getting mushy!
6. Mixing in the Cheeses:
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. You’ll love how cheesy it gets!
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. When you’re ready to serve this comforting soup, ladle it into bowls.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to sprinkle on extra grated Parmesan. Enjoy your warm and hearty bowl of Crockpot Cheesy Ricotta Lasagna Soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just cook it in the same way until browned, and continue with the recipe as usual.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, replace the ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth, and you’re all set!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup thickens, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before reheating!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It should keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or microwave.
