Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup With Delicious Ingredients For Your Dinner Time

Immerse yourself in the delicious symphony of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, a heartwarming medley of rich flavors. Succumb to the allure of a meal that’s been gently simmering, marrying Italian seasonings with fresh ingredients. 

Picture the vibrant tomatoes, savory beef, and creamy cheese, conjuring a delicious broth that tastes like an embrace. It isn’t just a soup; it’s the epitome of comfort cuisine, transforming your kitchen into an Italian grandmother’s rustic haven. 

The slow cooker does the magic, infusing the layers of flavor, letting you bask in the aroma wafting through your home. With every spoonful, experience a culinary journey, connecting with the essence of simple, good food. This Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is more than a meal—it’s a melody of nostalgia, warmth, and indulgence. 

So join us, relish the comforting dance of flavors, and discover how this dish can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary gastronomic delight.

What Is Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is a delightful fusion of the flavors you love in a lasagna, served in a comforting bowl of soup. It’s a robust concoction that combines ground meat, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian herbs, all slow-cooked to perfection. 

To mimic lasagna, broken lasagna noodles and a creamy cheese mixture are added toward the end of cooking. This slow cooker marvel offers the hearty goodness of lasagna in a more casual, spoonable format, ideal for family dinners and laid-back gatherings.

History Of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup emerges from a blend of two culinary worlds. The slow cooker, a popular appliance since the 1970s, epitomizes convenient, no-fuss cooking. 

Lasagna, on the other hand, is a time-honored Italian dish dating back to the 13th century. Marrying the two was a stroke of culinary genius. As home cooks started to seek more innovative ways to utilize their slow cookers, the idea of transforming the classic lasagna into a simpler yet equally flavorful soup emerged. 

This modern creation took off, resonating with those yearning for comfort food with a twist and making cooking and mealtime less laborious.

 Interesting Facts About Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup transforms the typically layered structure of a traditional lasagna into a simple, one-pot meal.
• While lasagna requires precise layering and baking, the soup version marries all the flavors together, emphasizing the dish’s essence and convenience.
• This soup is remarkably adaptable, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. There are versions available for vegetarian, gluten-free, and even vegan diets.
• It’s a great dish to serve year-round. While it offers warmth and comfort during colder months, its lightness compared to traditional lasagna makes it appealing even during warmer seasons.
• The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making the soup taste like it’s been simmering for hours, even when the prep time is minimal.
• Adding the noodles at the end of cooking prevents them from becoming too soft, striking the right balance of texture within the soup.

What Makes Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Special?

• Simplicity: It captures the essence of a traditionally complex dish like lasagna and simplifies it into a one-pot meal.
• Versatility: This soup caters to various dietary preferences and can be adapted to vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan diets.
• Flavorful: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying dish.
• Convenience: It’s a perfect choice for busy individuals as it requires less active cooking time, and the slow cooker does the work for you.
• Year-Round Appeal: While offering warmth and comfort in colder seasons, it’s lighter than traditional lasagna, making it an appealing choice even in warmer weather.
• Texture Balance: Adding lasagna noodles towards the end of cooking ensures they retain some bite, adding textural interest to the soup.
• Innovation: The idea of converting a classic layered dish into a spoonable format demonstrates culinary creativity, making it a unique addition to any meal repertoire.

Ingredients List

Ingredient Tips 

• Quality of Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier version. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian variant, consider mushrooms or lentils as a hearty substitute.
• Tomatoes: Using high-quality canned diced tomatoes can enhance the flavor. Opt for a chunkier soup mix of crushed and diced tomatoes.
• Cheese: Freshly grated cheeses tend to melt better than pre-packaged shredded versions. A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan imparts a richer flavor profile.
• Lasagna Noodles: Break the noodles into smaller pieces for easier eating. Add them to the cooking process’s end to maintain a pleasing texture.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can significantly boost the flavor. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less.
• Slow Cooker Size: Ensure your slow cooker is large enough, typically a 6-quart cooker, to accommodate all the ingredients without overfilling.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your palate. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a bit of sugar to balance the acidity of tomatoes.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto: Substitute the lasagna noodles with zucchini ribbons or slices. Make sure to use a sugar-free marinara sauce and opt for full-fat cheese.
• Paleo: Use grain-free pasta or zucchini ribbons as a noodle substitute. Replace regular cheese with a paleo-approved cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
• Gluten-Free: Swap traditional lasagna noodles for a gluten-free variant in most grocery stores.
• Whole30: Use compliant sausage instead of ground beef, and replace the noodles with thinly sliced potatoes. Skip the cheese, as it’s not Whole30 compliant.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the ground meat with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture. Skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute for a vegan version.

Recipe Directions 

• Brown sausage in a large frying pan, crumble, strain, and transfer to a slow cooker.
• Sauté carrots and onion in the same pan until tender. Add garlic and mushrooms, and cook until soft. Transfer to slow cooker.
• Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and broth to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
• Skim off fat. Add lasagna, cook until soft, about an hour. Stir in spinach.
• Let sit for 10 minutes. Serve over mozzarella cheese, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with basil if desired.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Meatless: Swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms, creating a hearty vegetarian option.
• Seafood: Try a seafood twist by adding cooked shrimp or scallops at the end.
• Spicy: Introduce some heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.

Add-ons

• Beans: Cannellini or kidney beans add a delightful texture and extra protein.
• Greens: Mix in hearty greens like kale or chard for added nutrients.
• Grains: Consider adding cooked quinoa or barley for a heartier soup.

Toppings

• Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as smoked mozzarella or fontina.
• Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or even a dollop of pesto.
• Crunch: Add a crunchy element with toasted breadcrumbs or croutons.

Scaling The Recipe 

Scaling Up

• Double or triple the ingredients if you want more servings for a larger gathering. However, ensure your slow cooker can handle the increased volume. You should use multiple slow cookers or cook in batches.

Scaling Down

• If you cook for fewer people, you can halve the recipe. But remember, one advantage of slow cooker recipes is the potential for leftovers. The flavors of this soup will deepen over time, making it a perfect reheatable meal for the following day.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Cheese: A sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty tang and a beautiful visual appeal. You could also use a bit of shredded mozzarella or dollops of ricotta for added creaminess.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil is a classic garnish for anything lasagna-related, but chopped parsley or a spoonful of pesto can also be wonderful.
• Crunchy Elements: Toasted breadcrumbs or croutons can add a delightful crunch, contrasting the soup’s soft texture.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can give a glossy finish and rich flavor.

Can I Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup In A Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• The recipe is designed for a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together over several hours of slow, low-temperature cooking. This method is perfect if you want to prepare your ingredients in the morning and have a hot, ready meal in the evening.

Instant Pot

• If you want to make this dish in a shorter time frame, an Instant Pot is a great option. Use the sauté function for browning the meat and vegetables, then switch to the pressure cook setting to cook everything together. The lasagna noodles can be added afterward on the sauté setting until they are cooked to your preference. Adjust the cooking times accordingly, as pressure cooking significantly reduces the required cooking time.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

• You can use store-bought broth in Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup. It’s a great time-saver and, when chosen carefully, can offer fantastic flavor to your dish. When shopping, look for a low-sodium, high-quality brand, as this will allow you better control over the saltiness and taste of your soup.
• On the other hand, making homemade broth can be rewarding if you have the time and ingredients. It often delivers richer flavors and lets you control the ingredients completely, especially for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

• Meat: You can replace the sausage with ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
• Fish: While not traditional, you could add a seafood twist by incorporating cooked shrimp, crab meat, or clams. Ensure to add seafood to the cooking process’s end to avoid overcooking.
• Pasta: Any pasta shape that holds up well in soups can be used instead of lasagna noodles. Consider shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or penne. Use gluten-free pasta or vegetable noodles like zucchini ribbons for a gluten-free version.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you like. Bell peppers, kale, zucchini, or spinach are great options. Just be mindful of the cooking time required for each vegetable to ensure they’re cooked to the right texture.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe 

Making Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can be a seamless process if you follow these practical tips and tricks:

Prepping Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop all your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge to save time in the morning.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the soup’s flavor. Opt for fresh produce and high-quality meat, broth, and canned tomatoes.
• Cheese Prep: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor. Grate your cheese ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.

Cooking Tips

• Browning the Meat: Cooking the meat until it’s well-browned adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Take your time with this step.
• Layering Ingredients: Adding ingredients in layers helps to build flavor. Start with the meat, aromatics and vegetables, broth, and tomatoes.
• Add Pasta Late: To avoid overcooked, mushy noodles, add the pasta towards the end of the cooking process.
• Fat Removal: After cooking the soup, skim off any fat that rises to the top for a healthier, less greasy result.
• Cheese Last: Add the cheese just before serving to prevent it from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the cooker.
• Resting Time: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving helps to meld the flavors together.

Nutritional Values 

Discover the nourishing goodness of our soups! Our soup offers a delightful blend of taste and nutrition to keep you hearty and satisfied. Embrace a wholesome dining experience with every savory spoonful.

What Are The Total Calories In The Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

The total calorie content of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. A standard Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup serving ranges between 300-500 calories. The accounts for the meat, vegetables, pasta, broth, and cheese commonly included in the recipe.

Dietary Restrictions For Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Gluten: Found in traditional lasagna noodles and potentially in some store-bought broth or sausage.
• Dairy: In the form of cheese used for garnishing.
• Meat: Sausage or other ground meat used in the base of the soup.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the sausage with lentils or mushrooms. For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with gluten-free pasta shapes or vegetable noodles like zucchini ribbons. Also, ensure the broth and sausage are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese garnish or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Substitute traditional pasta with a low-carb alternative, such as spiralized vegetables or shirataki noodles.

Health Benefits Of Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Rich in Protein: The sausage or other meats used in the soup provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• High in Vitamins and Minerals: The variety of vegetables used in the soup, such as carrots, onions, and spinach, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to overall health and well-being.
• Bone Health: The broth, especially if homemade from bones, can provide essential nutrients like collagen, which supports bone and joint health.
• Antioxidants: Tomatoes and garlic offer a potent mix of antioxidants, which help protect the body against harmful free radicals.
• Dietary Fiber: If whole-grain pasta is used, it can provide an additional source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Low-Sodium Broth: Use a low-sodium or sodium-free broth. It can significantly reduce the overall sodium content, as broths often contain a significant amount.
• Rinse Canned Tomatoes: If you’re using canned tomatoes, rinse them before adding them to your soup. This can help to remove some of the added sodium.
• Avoid Processed Meats: Sausage and other processed meats often contain high sodium. Opt for fresh, lean meats, or use a plant-based protein like lentils.
• No Added Salt: Refrain from adding extra salt while cooking. You can always add a dash at the end if needed, but the ingredients’ natural flavors often provide enough taste.
• Spice It Up: Use herbs, spices, garlic, and onions to add flavor without adding sodium.

How Can I Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Check Your Broth: Some store-bought broths can contain added sugars. Check the ingredient list and opt for a broth with no added sugars.
• Choose Low-Sugar or No-Sugar-Added Tomatoes: Some canned tomatoes contain added sugars. Look for low-sugar or no-sugar-added varieties.
• Avoid Processed Meats: Sausages and other processed meats may have hidden sugars. Using fresh ground meat or poultry can be a better option.
• Mind Your Toppings: Be cautious with additional toppings like certain cheeses or pre-packaged croutons, as they can sometimes contain hidden sugars.
• Natural Flavors: Rely on natural flavors from herbs and spices to give your soup depth and complexity, rather than adding sugar or using ingredients that contain added sugars.

How To Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Best?

• Bowl Selection: Choose deep bowls to keep the soup warm for longer and to comfortably mix in the cheese and any other toppings you choose.
• Cheese Garnish: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and a bit of grated Parmesan cheese over each serving. The soup’s heat will gently melt the cheese, adding a delightful creaminess.
• Bread Pairing: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup and scooping up every delicious bit.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Accompaniment: If serving as a main course, pair the soup with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the hearty richness of the soup.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for sopping up the soup’s flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Try a simple green salad, a Caesar salad, or even an Italian-style chopped salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can add a lovely texture and flavor contrast to the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Cut into smaller portions, a grilled cheese sandwich can be a fun and comforting side to dip into the soup.
• Bruschetta: Crisp, flavorful bruschetta can provide a nice texture contrast to the soup and carry through the Italian theme.
• Antipasto Platter: If you’re serving the soup at a dinner party, an antipasto platter with various Italian meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables can complement the soup nicely.

How Long Can We Store Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup stores quite well, like many other soup recipes, and is perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Once cooled, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
• Freezer: If you’d like to store the soup for longer, it can be frozen for 2-3 months. However, please note that the pasta in the soup may become softer once thawed and reheated. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider cooking it without the pasta and adding cooked pasta when ready to serve the thawed soup.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Yes, you certainly can prepare Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup in advance. This soup is perfect for meal prep as the flavors deepen and meld together more over time. Here’s how you can go about it:

• Cook in Advance: Prepare the soup thoroughly, but consider leaving out the pasta if you make it more than a day in advance. The pasta can become too soft if it sits in the soup for too long.
• Refrigerate: Once the soup has cooled, store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Add Pasta Later: If you’ve left the pasta out of your initial preparation, cook it separately according to package instructions and add it to the soup when ready to serve. This ensures the pasta remains al dente.
• Reheat: When ready to serve the soup, reheat it on the stove until heated. If you’ve saved adding your pasta until now, add the cooked pasta now and let it warm in the soup for a few minutes.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Pasta Casserole: Add the soup to a baking dish, mix with additional cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the soup as a flavorful stuffing for bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake.
• Layered Lasagna: Use the soup as a layer in a traditional baked lasagna, adding extra layers of pasta and cheese.
• Pizza Topping: Spread it on pizza dough, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for a unique pizza flavor.
• Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with warmed soup for a comforting and filling meal.
• Rice Mix-in: Stir the soup into cooked rice for a hearty, savory side dish or main course.

Special Tools And Equipment Needed

• Slow Cooker: A 5 or 6-quart slow cooker is essential for this recipe. It allows the flavors to meld together over a long cooking period.
• Large Skillet: A large skillet is necessary for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Wooden Spoon: This is used to stir and break the sausage into crumbles as it cooks.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: These are needed for chopping vegetables.
• Cheese Grater: A grater will be necessary if you’re using whole blocks of cheese.
• Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving soup.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Substitute The Sausage With Another Type Of Meat?

You can substitute the sausage with other types of meat, depending on your preference. Ground beef, turkey, or chicken would work well in this recipe. Just ensure you’re still achieving the depth of flavor the sausage provides, perhaps by upping your spice quantity slightly.

Is There A Dairy-Free Alternative To The Cheeses Used In The Recipe?

Yes, there are several dairy-free cheese alternatives available in the market that you can use. Look for dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan cheese alternatives, ideally, those that melt well.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To This Soup?

This soup is quite versatile, and you can add other vegetables. Some options could be bell peppers, zucchini, or peas. Be mindful of cooking times to ensure your added vegetables are cooked appropriately.

What If I Don’t Have A Slow Cooker? Can I Still Make This Soup?

This soup can be made on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven. You would follow the same steps but adjust the cooking time. Instead of slow cooking for 4-6 hours, let the soup simmer on the stovetop for 30-45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

 My Soup Seems A Little Thick. Can I Thin It Out?

If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more broth to reach your needful consistency. Do this gradually. Stir the soup and check the thickness to ensure you don’t make it too thin.

35-Minute Delightful Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup For Your Dinner Time

5 from 2 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup recipe

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

35

minutes

Cooking time

5

hours 

35

minutes

Calories

300-500

kcal

Indulge in a comforting soup bursting with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Our carefully crafted recipe promises a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, succulent meats, and aromatic herbs, ensuring a warm and satisfying experience with every spoonful. Savor the goodness and embrace the nourishment!

Ingredient List

• Johnsonville® Ground Mild Italian sausage

• Large onion

• Medium carrots

• Fresh mushrooms

• Garlic cloves

• Chicken broth

• Italian stewed tomatoes

• Tomato sauce

• Lasagna noodles

• Fresh spinach

• Part-skim mozzarella cheese

• Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil (optional)

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Begin by cooking the sausage over medium-high heat in a large frying pan. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, strain the sausage to remove excess fat, then transfer to a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.
• Without cleaning the pan, add the carrots and onions. Stir and cook until tender, which should take 2-4 minutes. Next, mix in the garlic and mushrooms, stirring regularly. Cook until the mushrooms are tender, approximately 2-4 minutes. Transfer the cooked vegetables to the slow cooker.
• Mix the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and broth into the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and let it cook. The goal is to have the vegetables turn soft, which should take about 4-6 hours.
• Once cooked, skim off any fat that has floated to the top of the soup. Add the lasagna noodles, letting them cook until soft, typically about another hour. Then, stir in the spinach.
• After the ingredients have been mixed in, remove the slow cooker insert and let the soup sit for 10 minutes to cool slightly.
• To serve, distribute mozzarella cheese among each bowl. Spoon the hot soup over the cheese, allowing it to melt slightly. Sprinkle each serving with Parmesan cheese, and if you’d like, garnish with a few basil leaves. Enjoy this comforting bowl of deliciousness, knowing it caters to your nutritional needs and satisfies your cravings for wholesome home-cooked food.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/-d9zzMK6Cng?si=S-42EIsoD_0GtbRw

Notes

• Johnsonville® Ground Mild Italian sausage infuses the soup with delightful spices and flavors.
• Onions, carrots, and mushrooms provide textures and earthy goodness.
• Aromatic garlic cloves add a savory essence to the tomato-based broth.
• Broken lasagna noodles cook perfectly, adding a satisfying chew to each spoonful.
• Fresh spinach boosts the nutritional value of essential vitamins and minerals.
• Part-skim mozzarella and shredded Parmesan cheese offer a creamy indulgence.
• Optional thinly sliced fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note for a finishing touch.
• The slow cooker method makes the recipe time-saving and hassle-free.
• Perfect for a comforting and nourishing meal for family and friends.
• Enjoy the richness and flavors of this delectable Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup!

• Author
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Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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