01 -
In a large skillet, brown 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10) over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) for 1 minute more.
02 -
Transfer the browned beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 4 cups beef broth, 2 tbsp tomato paste, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
03 -
Stir all ingredients well in the crockpot. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich base for your Crockpot Lasagna Soup with Beef & Ricotta.
04 -
After the initial cooking time, stir the soup. Break 6-8 lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces and add them to the crockpot. Ensure the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Cover and continue cooking on HIGH for another 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
05 -
While the noodles cook, in a small bowl, combine 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth. This creamy ricotta mixture will be swirled into individual servings, adding a classic lasagna layer to your Crockpot Lasagna Soup with Beef & Ricotta.
06 -
Once the noodles are tender, stir 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese into the hot soup until melted and fully incorporated. This adds a wonderful cheesy stretch and richness to the Crockpot Lasagna Soup with Beef & Ricotta.
07 -
Ladle the hot Crockpot Lasagna Soup with Beef & Ricotta into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of the ricotta-Parmesan mixture and garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped. Serve immediately and enjoy!