A comforting and flavorful soup capturing the rich elements of traditional lasagna with the ease of a slow cooker.
Author:andy
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:360 minutes
Total Time:375 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Slow Cooking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Meat
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef
1/2 yellow onion
3 tsp garlic
14.5 oz diced tomatoes
14.5 oz crushed tomatoes
1/3 cup tomato paste
5 cups beef broth
2 tsp basil
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp rosemary
1 tsp thyme
Salt & pepper to taste
9 oz lasagna noodles
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Ricotta cheese (optional)
Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
Brown the beef: In a large pan over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper, add the garlic, and continue cooking for another minute. Stir in the diced onion and cook until the beef is mostly browned (it’s okay if some pink remains).
Combine in the crockpot: Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir in the basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and additional salt and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
Slow cook: Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add noodles: After 5 hours, break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir them into the soup. Replace the lid and let it cook for the final hour.
Cheesy goodness: With about 30 minutes left, add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the soup. Stir to combine and let it melt into the soup for that signature lasagna flavor.
Serve and enjoy: Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a scoop of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with fresh basil for a vibrant finish.
Notes
Use lean ground beef for less grease. Adjust herbs based on preference for customized flavor.