Crockpot Lasagna Soup

I’m so excited to share with you one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: Crockpot Lasagna Soup. This dish has a special place in my heart because it not only warms the belly but also brings people together. When I make this soup, the aroma fills my home, wrapping everyone in a cozy hug, reminiscent of family gatherings where we all sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

Have you ever experienced those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty and delicious? This is the dish that comes to the rescue! It combines the rich and comforting flavors of lasagna with the ease of a soup, making it perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. Plus, knowing that it simmers away in the crockpot while you handle your day gives you such peace of mind.

So, let’s dive in and create this wonderful Crockpot Lasagna Soup together. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Preparation Process for Crockpot Lasagna Soup:

• Total time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Cost: Approximately $15
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Italian
• Calories: About 360 per serving

Ingredients for Crockpot Lasagna Soup:

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• 1 lb Italian sausage: This is the star protein of the dish, adding that rich and savory flavor we all love in traditional lasagna.
• 1 onion, diced: Onions bring sweetness and depth to the soup; they’re a must!
• 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: These add a nice acidity and freshness, balancing out the richness of the sausage.
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken: The noodles are the heart of your soup, giving it that classic lasagna feel.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This forms the base of your soup, providing needed moisture and flavor.
• 2 cups Ricotta cheese: Creamy and dreamy, Ricotta makes this dish so indulgent—it’s like a hug in a bowl!
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: To add that melty, stretchy goodness we love about lasagna.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty finish to the dish.
• Italian seasoning to taste: A pre-mixed blend of herbs that defines Italian cuisine and gives your soup those characteristic flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These are essential for enhancing all the lovely flavors you’ll be combining.

Personal Note: A little tip from my kitchen: you can use leftover sausage from other meals, and it’ll make this soup even quicker to prepare! Reduce prep time and make it even more flavorful.

Steps to Prepare Crockpot Lasagna Soup:

1. Start with Browning the Sausage and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, take your 1 lb of Italian sausage and 1 diced onion. Cook them together until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent. It’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly! Once done, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup lighter.

2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Now that your sausage and onions are ready, it’s time to move to the crockpot. Combine the browned mixture with 2 cans of diced tomatoes, 8 oz lasagna noodles (broken into pieces), and 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.

3. Season it Up
Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, along with some salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir so those flavors meld beautifully together.

4. Cover and Cook
This is the part I love—the waiting! Cover your crockpot and let it cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the noodles are tender.

5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
While your soup is cooking, take a separate bowl and mix together 2 cups of Ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture will take your soup to the next level!

6. Serve and Enjoy
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top each serving with that generous scoop of your cheese mixture. It’s simply irresistible!

Why I Love Making This Dish:
What I adore about Crockpot Lasagna Soup is not just the taste but the memories it evokes. Each time I serve it, my family gathers around the table, and I’m reminded of the warm dinners I enjoyed with my own family when I was growing up. The laughter, the stories, and just being together over a delicious meal are what makes life so special.

What You’ll Need:
Before you jump in, make sure you have these tools handy:

• A skillet for browning the sausage
• A crockpot for simmering your soup
• A good knife and cutting board for chopping
• Mixing bowls for your cheese blend
• Ladle for serving up that scrumptious soup

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Crockpot Lasagna Soup:

1. First, heat your skillet over medium heat. This is vital for getting a nice brown on your sausage!
2. Next, add the Italian sausage and diced onion into the skillet and cook until browned.
3. Then, drain any excess fat before transferring them to your crockpot.
4. Now, toss in the diced tomatoes, broken lasagna noodles, and broth.
5. Don’t forget the seasoning! Add your Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring until well combined.
6. Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic. Low and slow for 4-6 hours, or high for 2-3.
7. Prepare your cheese mixture in the meantime for added creaminess.
8. Finally, once it’s ready, serve it up hot with that dreamy cheese topping.

Tips for the Best Results:
To elevate this dish further, consider adding some chopped spinach or kale for an extra veggie boost. It not only looks beautiful but adds more nutrients too!

Serving Suggestions:
I love to serve my Crockpot Lasagna Soup with a side of crunchy garlic bread. You can also pair it with a simple salad for a refreshing contrast.

What to Serve with Crockpot Lasagna Soup:
A nice green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar goes wonderfully with this dish, adding a crisp, fresh touch.

What to Do with Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. Just add a little extra broth if it’s too thick!

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use ground beef instead of sausage? Absolutely! Beef will work fine, just remember it will change the flavor profile slightly.
• Is there a vegetarian version? Yes! You can replace the sausage with chopped mushrooms or lentils for a delicious meatless version.
• Can I freeze this soup? Yes! It freezes well. Just ensure you store it in a freezer-safe container and it will last up to 3 months. Reheat slowly for best results.

As I wrap up, I genuinely encourage you to try making this Crockpot Lasagna Soup. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for bringing family and friends together. I promise that after sharing a warm bowl, you will create new memories that will last a lifetime. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!