This comforting lasagna soup is a tasty twist on the classic dish, loaded with all the flavors you love. It’s made in a crockpot, making it super easy and perfect for busy days!
I love how this soup combines hearty pasta and rich tomato sauce with melted cheese. You can relax while it cooks, and your house will smell amazing. Who doesn’t love a kitchen that feels warm and inviting?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: These provide richness to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter version, ground turkey works well. For a vegetarian option, try using a mix of mushrooms and lentils instead.
Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles: Choose a brand you like and break them into smaller pieces. If you can’t find gluten-free noodles, consider using spiralized zucchini or rice noodles for a different texture.
Cheeses: I recommend whole milk ricotta for creaminess. Substitute with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. For mozzarella, you can use a dairy-free version if needed, which melts nicely too.
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but chicken or vegetable broth can work, too, depending on your preference or dietary needs. Homemade broth is always a great choice!
How Do I Ensure My Lasagna Noodles Cook Perfectly in the Soup?
Adding lasagna noodles to soup can be tricky, but here’s how to do it without them getting mushy. It’s best to add them about 30 minutes before serving. This way, they cook just right without overcooking.
- Make sure your soup is bubbling before adding the noodles.
- Stir them in gently and keep the lid on to maximize cooking time.
- Check for tenderness after 20 minutes, and feel free to add a little more broth if it seems too thick.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked noodles that blend wonderfully with the flavors of the soup!
Crockpot Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (can use turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups gluten-free beef or chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6–8 oz gluten-free lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. You can let it cook for 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just let it simmer and then enjoy all the delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage along with the finely chopped onion. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess fat before moving on.
2. Enhance with Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the meat mixture and cook for about a minute, just until the garlic gets fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma to your soup!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now, transfer the meat mixture to your crockpot. Stir in the broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything together well.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. This slow cooking helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, add the broken lasagna noodles to the crockpot. Stir them in, cover again, and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
6. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
While the soup finishes cooking, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. This will be your delicious topping!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the noodles are cooked, serve the soup hot in bowls. Add a generous dollop of your cheese mixture on top and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a nice touch!
Enjoy this cozy, hearty gluten-free lasagna soup that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Soup?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef or Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before adding it to the crockpot.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the meat and substitute it with extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also add lentils or beans for protein while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or some gluten-free crackers for a complete meal!
