Lasagna Soup Crock Pot: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Introduction
Lasagna soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a crock pot. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna without the hassle of layering noodles. With the help of a crock pot, you can simply throw all the ingredients in and let it simmer to perfection.
Ingredients
To make lasagna soup in a crock pot, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 can of tomato sauce
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 cups of uncooked bowtie pasta
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until cooked through.
2. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the crock pot.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the crock pot.
4. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked bowtie pasta to the crock pot and stir to combine.
7. Let the pasta cook until al dente.
8. Serve the lasagna soup hot, garnished with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
Benefits of Using a Crock Pot
Using a crock pot to make lasagna soup has several benefits. Firstly, it allows for a hands-off cooking experience, as you can simply set it and forget it. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Additionally, the slow cooking process helps to develop the flavors of the soup, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
Variations
There are many variations of lasagna soup that you can try. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ground beef and add in extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni. Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to suit your tastes.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. Simply follow the instructions as normal when you are ready to make the soup.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, lasagna soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for garnishing the soup. Parmesan or ricotta cheese would also work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lasagna soup made in a crock pot is a delicious and easy recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a comforting and hearty soup. Give this recipe a try and impress your loved ones with a warm and satisfying meal.
Lasagna Soup Crock Pot