Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe

If you are craving the comforting, hearty flavors of classic Italian lasagna but want something quicker and cozier, then Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is exactly what you need. This delightful soup takes all the best parts of lasagna—the rich tomato sauce, savory Italian sausage, tender noodles, and melty cheese—and transforms them into a warm, comforting bowl of joy that practically cooks itself. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or craving a fuss-free weeknight meal, this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup guarantees that every spoonful bursts with that familiar homemade goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is straightforward but so essential. Each ingredient brings its own magic, from the sweetness of the tomatoes to the savory Italian sausage that makes the broth so rich and satisfying.

• 1 lb ground Italian sausage: Adds a bold, savory foundation packed with herbs and spices.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with that unmistakable aromatic punch.
• 1 – 30 oz tomato sauce: The heart of the soup providing thick, rich tomato flavor.
• 1 – 15 oz diced tomatoes: Adds texture and a burst of fresh tomato brightness.
• 1 – 32 oz chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, savory liquid that ties everything together.
• 12 oz bow tie noodles (or broken lasagna noodles): Perfectly tender pasta that soaks up all the delicious broth.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor.
• Sour cream for serving: Adds a creamy, tangy finish that balances richness.
• Shredded mozzarella for serving: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible cheesy touch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by cooking your ground Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial to develop a rich and flavorful base for your soup, with the sausage’s spices releasing into the pan’s juices.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned sausage to your slow cooker and add the diced onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to combine those incredible flavors, then place the lid on to begin slow-cooking the magic.

Step 3: Let It Simmer Low and Slow

Cook the soup on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow-cooked method allows all the flavors to mingle and deepen, resulting in a broth that tastes as if it simmered for hours on the stove.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

About one hour before serving, crank your slow cooker up to high if it’s not there already. Then, 30 minutes before mealtime, stir in your pasta. Check every 15 minutes for doneness—once the noodles are tender, your Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup is ready to enjoy!

Step 5: Serve with Love

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top generously with shredded mozzarella and a dollop of tangy sour cream. These finishing touches bring the classic lasagna elements right to your spoon.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Garnishes

The toppings truly elevate the experience. A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella adds gooey, melty warmth, while a spoonful of sour cream introduces creamy tang. You can also add some freshly chopped basil or a grating of Parmesan for an extra layer of Italian charm.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm breadsticks, like classic Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks, or a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can also balance the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out bread rolls, which add a rustic flair and an edible vessel perfect for dipping. Or layer the soup in clear glass mugs to showcase the vibrant red broth and steaming noodles—pure cozy comfort in a cup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup tastes just as good the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, so it often tastes even better reheated.

Freezing

If you want to keep Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup longer, freezing is a great option. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months, but be sure to wait to add noodles until reheating to avoid mushy pasta.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw soup overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over low-medium heat. Add fresh cooked noodles if needed, and stir until heated through. Top with fresh cheese and sour cream as when first served for that freshly made feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Ground beef can be used if you prefer a milder flavor, but adding Italian seasoning will help mimic the sausage’s classic taste.

What type of noodles work best in Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup?

Bow tie noodles or broken lasagna noodles are perfect because they hold up well without getting mushy too quickly. Avoid very thin pastas that may disintegrate during the slow cooking.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers to boost flavor and texture.

Is sour cream necessary for serving?

Sour cream is optional but highly recommended! It adds creamy tanginess that balances the acidic tomato base and complements the cheese beautifully.

Can I prepare this soup in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use the sauté function to brown the meat and then pressure cook everything for about 15-20 minutes. Add pasta at the end and use the sauté mode until done.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers looking for simplicity without compromising on taste. It’s hearty, richly flavored, and effortless to put together, making it a cherished go-to for any season. I promise once you try this cozy bowl of Italian-inspired goodness, it will become a favorite to make and share over and over again.

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