Cozy Lasagna Soup

This slow cooker lasagna soup brings all the cozy layers of classic lasagna into one warm, filling bowl that's easy to make. It slowly cooks all day, filling your kitchen with amazing smells and delivering big flavors without the hassle of stacking noodles.

I tried this soup on a packed weeknight and loved how it captured the feel of lasagna without the layering or waiting. It quickly turned into a staple for filling up hungry folks at home.

Needed Ingredients

• Ground beef: lean works best to keep it from getting greasy but still gives a strong protein punch
• Onion and garlic: key for a great fragrant base—choose fresh and firm pieces for top flavor
• Crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste: blend to build a rich tomato flavor—good quality canned tomatoes make a big difference
• Beef broth: adds the moisture and beefy flavor—go low sodium if you want to control salt easily
• Dried basil and oregano: give that classic Italian taste—fresh herbs work too if you have them
• Salt and black pepper: adjust to your preferred seasoning level
• Uncooked rotini pasta: chunk-sized noodles that cook right in the pot
• Ricotta cheese: brings a creamy mild tang
• Mozzarella cheese: fresh shredded melts beautifully on top
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a nutty finishing touch
• Chopped parsley: toss on last for a dash of color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook The Meat Sauce First

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, stirring every now and then until no pink remains. Drain the extra fat to keep things from getting oily. Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion looks clear and smells great.

Put Everything In The Slow Cooker

Pour the beef mix into your crock pot. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth well so flavors mingle.

Add Spices And Let It Cook

Mix in dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover and let it cook on low for 6 to 7 hours for best flavor. If you're short on time, set it on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Throw In The Pasta

About 30 minutes before you want to eat, stir raw rotini noodles into the soup. Put the lid back on and cook until the pasta is tender and soaked with flavor.

Make The Ricotta Mix

While pasta cooks, mix ricotta and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This adds creamy goodness to each bowl later on.

Dish It Out

Scoop the hot soup into bowls. Dollop the ricotta mix over each, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Serve right away while everything's warm and melty.

This dish always brings back memories of the first winter I made it and how my family gathered round, sharing laughs and asking for seconds happily.

Smart Storage Ideas

Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. It heats up nicely on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add some water or broth when reheating since noodles soak up liquid overnight. It freezes well for two months too. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before warming gently.

Ingredient Swaps

Switch ground beef with Italian sausage for a little extra kick. You can sneak in some diced carrots or zucchini when you add onion and garlic. Try tossing fresh basil and oregano at the end for a fresh herbal pop before serving.

Great Side Ideas

Garlic bread with a crispy crust is awesome to soak up every drop. A green salad with lemon dressing cuts through the cheese's richness. For drinks, try a light red like Pinot Noir or a sparkling drink to refresh your palate.

This slow cooker lasagna soup feels both cozy and practical for any day. Its easy steps and big flavors keep everyone coming back for more.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ Can I use Italian sausage instead of ground beef?

Definitely, swapping in Italian sausage gives the soup a deeper, spicier kick.

→ When should the pasta be added during cooking?

Drop the uncooked rotini in about half an hour before it’s done so it stays tender without getting mushy.

→ How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

If it gets too thick, just stir in some more beef broth or water until it’s just right.

→ Can I include vegetables in this dish?

Sure, tossing in chopped veggies like carrots, zucchini, or spinach adds great texture and nutrition without messing with the taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored for best freshness?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and eat them within three days for the best flavor and safety.