Description
This Healthy Slow Cooker Lazy Lasagna Soup is a hearty, high-protein meal that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a slow cooker. Featuring lean ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, whole wheat lasagna noodles, and a blend of Italian seasonings, it's a comforting soup perfect for busy days. Topped with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh parsley, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 14.5 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes (crushed or diced)
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 10 oz lasagna noodles (whole wheat or fiber-enriched, about 10 noodles)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Drain off excess grease. Alternatively, if your crockpot has a sauté function, you can perform this step directly in the crockpot.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the browned ground beef to the crockpot. Add diced onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, fire-roasted tomatoes, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, optional red pepper flakes, and reduced-sodium beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Base Mixture: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3.5-4 hours to let the flavors meld and vegetables soften.
- Add Noodles: Remove the lid and break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces directly over the crockpot, then stir them in carefully with the other ingredients.
- Cook with Noodles: Cover again and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a tablespoon of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use whole wheat or fiber-enriched lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
- If your crockpot has a sauté function, cooking the beef directly in it can save time and reduce dishes.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder soup.
- This soup thickens more upon standing; if it gets too thick, add a bit more broth when reheating.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.