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Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
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There’s something undeniably inviting about the aroma of a slow-cooked meal, filling the house with a sense of warmth and comfort. Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup takes this experience to another level, merging the rich, classic flavors of traditional lasagna with the ease and simplicity of a one-pot meal. This dish offers a new twist on an old favorite, making it perfect for weeknights when you crave the depth of lasagna without the hassle of layering and baking.

Ingredients

Scale

Discover the flavors and textures that make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup a beloved comfort meal. Every ingredient plays a significant role in crafting the perfect bowl of goodness.

  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage – Provides a hearty base with rich, savory flavor.
  • 1 onion, chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses aromatic warmth and enhances the overall taste.
  • 4 cups chicken or beef broth – Serves as the flavorful liquid foundation for the soup.
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pasta sauce – Brings a robust tomato essence to the dish.
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes – Adds texture and enhances the tomato flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the other flavors.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the flavors.
  • 1 bay leaf – Infuses an additional layer of aromatic flavor.
  • 8–10 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – Forms the pasta component, mimicking traditional lasagna layers.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese – Offers creamy richness, essential in balancing the acidity.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully atop the soup, adding to its comforting feel.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides a salty, umami kick to finish the dish.
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a finishing touch.
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat – For those who desire a hint of spice.

Instructions

Preparing the Meat

Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking it until the meat is browned and no longer pink. This step helps in developing a deeper flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming greasy.

Making the Soup Base

Transfer the cooked meat into the slow cooker. Incorporate the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken or beef broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. Stir well to combine the ingredients, ensuring the seasonings distribute evenly throughout the mixture.

Slow Cooking

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. This method of cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup.

Adding the Noodles

Approximately 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, break the lasagna noodles into pieces and stir them into the slow cooker. This timing ensures the noodles will cook to the perfect tenderness, absorbing the flavorful broth.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Season with a little salt and pepper if desired. This cheese mix serves as a delectable topping for your soup, adding multiple layers of flavor and creaminess.

Serving

Serve the soup hot in individual bowls. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the cheese mixture, allowing the heat from the soup to melt it slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a touch of heat. This garnishing not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing presentation to the dish.

Notes

Choosing Your Meat

Whether you opt for ground beef or Italian sausage, each provides distinct flavors. Ground beef offers a more neutral, versatile taste, while Italian sausage brings a nuanced spice and depth. Consider your family’s preference when selecting the protein for the recipe. If choosing sausage, note that some varieties may increase the heat levels of the dish.

Broth Selection

The choice between chicken and beef broth can subtly alter the soup’s flavor profile. Chicken broth gives a lighter, more delicate base, allowing the tomato and herb flavors to shine. Conversely, beef broth adds a robust, hearty flavor that pairs well with the richness of the meat and cheese.

Vegetarian Adaptation

Transforming this dish into a meatless version is quite simple. Replace the beef or sausage with plant-based alternatives or enhance it with extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead to maintain a rich, comforting flavor without compromising on the dish’s heartiness.

Noodle Perfection

The timing of adding noodles to the soup is key to achieving the desired texture. Remember to stir well, ensuring they are entirely submerged in the broth, preventing them from sticking together. Avoid adding them too early, as this may result in overly soft, mushy noodles.

Advance Preparation

This recipe lends itself well to advance preparation. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, except for the noodles and cheese mix. Refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, start the cooking process the next morning for an effortless dinner by evening.

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