The moment the cool evening air sets in, I find myself craving something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. Recently, I discovered that turning my trusty crockpot into a culinary powerhouse opens up a world of possibilities, especially for busy weeknights. Imagine strolling into your kitchen to the rich aroma of creamy sun-dried tomatoes and melting cheese, with just a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top.
This Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup is a delightful twist that marries the heartiness of lasagna with the simplicity of a soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that gives fast food a run for its money. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a dish that’s both elegant enough for company and comforting enough for a cozy night in. This recipe encapsulates everything I adore about home cooking: it’s easy to make, brimming with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s dive into this incredibly satisfying bowl of goodness!
Why is Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup delivers an inviting, cozy feel that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Rich Flavors: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy cheeses creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Effortless Cooking: Simply set your crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day.
Versatile Dish: Ideal for weeknight dinners, it’s also elegant enough for entertaining guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings or cozy nights with friends.
Explore an easy way to bring joy to your table with this recipe that emphasizes home-cooked goodness!
Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup Ingredients
For the Base
- Salted butter – adds a rich flavor that enhances the soup’s creaminess.
- All-purpose flour – used to thicken the soup and create a velvety smooth texture.
- Yellow onion – brings a sweet and savory base to the dish, enriching the overall flavor.
- Garlic – infuses the soup with aromatic goodness that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Italian seasoning – provides a fragrant blend of herbs that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
- Chili flakes – add a kick of heat that balances the creamy elements.
- Chopped celery – brings a delightful crunch and subtle earthiness to the mix.
- Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – their concentrated flavor is the star of this Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup.
- Broth – the soul of the soup, imparting depth and warmth with every sip.
- Salt and black pepper – essential for savoriness, enhancing all other flavors in the soup.
For the Noodles
- Taccole pasta – this flat, wide pasta provides a lasagna-like texture; feel free to substitute with broken lasagna noodles for a similar effect.
For the Greens
- Baby spinach – adds vibrant color and nutrients, wilting beautifully into the soup.
For the Creaminess
- Heavy cream – brings luxurious richness to the soup, making it irresistibly creamy.
- Milk – lightens the texture while still maintaining a comforting warmth.
For the Cheesy Finish
- Shredded provolone cheese – melty and flavorful, it enhances the soup’s richness.
- Grated parmesan – adds a nutty, salty finish that ties all the flavors together.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this comforting and hearty soup, perfect for those cozy nights in. Enjoy!
How to Make Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup
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Melt and Mix: Set your crockpot to high. Add the salted butter and all-purpose flour together, cooking for about 5 minutes until it’s well combined and slightly bubbling. This forms the base for your creamy soup.
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Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Sauté for a few moments until fragrant, then add in the celery and drained sun-dried tomatoes.
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Add Broth: Pour in the broth and season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and cover your crockpot.
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Cook Low and Slow: Let the mixture cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. This is where the flavors meld beautifully!
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Combine Noodles and Greens: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, turn the heat to high, then stir in the Taccole pasta, chopped baby spinach, heavy cream, and milk. Cook until the noodles are soft, about 20 minutes.
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Finish with Cheese: Stir in the shredded provolone and grated parmesan cheese until melted and gooey. If you notice the soup is too thick, feel free to add a splash of additional broth or water.
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Serve and Garnish: Dish out your creamy soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a beautiful finishing touch.
Optional: Add a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating: When reheating, stir in some fresh noodles or pasta to regain that delightful texture, especially if it’s been stored for a while.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep the soup’s thickness in check by adding more broth when reheating, ensuring that your Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup stays creamy and delicious.
Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this soup to perfectly suit your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free pasta to keep it hearty yet tummy-friendly.
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Vegetarian: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a delightful twist.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate the soup’s warmth, creating a mouthwatering spicy version that leaves you wanting more.
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.
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Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of freshness that brightens up the flavors beautifully.
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Protein Boost: Stir in shredded chicken or Italian sausage during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added heartiness in every bowl. This creates a full meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
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Creamy Vegan: Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream and opt for vegan cheese to whip up a luscious vegan version that everyone will love.
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Texture Swap: Experiment with different pasta shapes like rotini or penne for a change in texture that keeps each bite interesting and fun!
These variations will help you craft a delightful and unique Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup that feels just right for any occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onion, garlic, celery, and sun-dried tomatoes) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can mix the heavy cream and milk beforehand; just be sure to keep them in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful soup, simply combine all the prepped ingredients in the crockpot, add the broth, and cook according to the original recipe. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures every bowl you serve is just as delicious and comforting as if made fresh that day!
What to Serve with Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup?
Creating the perfect meal experience involves pairing your soup with sides that enhance its rich and creamy flavors.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm loaf of garlic bread or rustic artisan bread soaks up every last drop of the soup.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness, making for a balanced meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and texture that complements the hearty soup beautifully.
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Cheesy Garlic Knots: These warm, gooey knots are an irresistible snack that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base of your soup.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic comfort food that’s perfect for dipping, the melty cheese and buttery bread echo the flavors of the soup.
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Red Wine: A smooth glass of Merlot or Chianti melds seamlessly with the dish, enhancing the flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing finish, serving this light dessert cleanses the palate after the soup’s comforting richness.
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Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A simple garnish that not only adds presentation but also echoes the herbal notes in the soup, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and cheese for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate this soup, making it even more delicious.
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Avoid Overcooking: While slow cooking enhances flavors, keep an eye on the noodles. Adding them too early can lead to mushiness; aim to stir them in during the last 15 minutes.
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Adjust Thickness: If you find the soup too thick at the end, do not hesitate to add more broth or water. This will help achieve that perfect creamy consistency without sacrificing flavor.
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Customize Herbs: Feel free to tailor the Italian seasoning to your taste. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the dish, tailoring it to your family’s preferences.
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Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for a few days, but for the best texture, add the pasta fresh during reheating. This keeps it from soaking up too much liquid.
Embrace these tips for a delightful Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup that will surely impress!
Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! For this Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup, I recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Their concentrated flavor adds depth to the soup and the oil can be used to enhance the buttery base. If you only have dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before using to rehydrate.
How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
You can store this soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. Trust me, you’ll want to make the most of those delicious leftovers!
Can I freeze this soup?
Very! This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove. For even better results, I suggest adding fresh pasta during reheating for that perfect texture!
What if the noodles get too mushy?
If you find the noodles have become mushy, you can easily remedy it! When reheating, stir in fresh noodles or pasta and add a bit more broth or water to bring back that delightful creamy consistency. By watching the cooking time and adding noodles last, you can avoid this issue in the future.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly! Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it aligned with your dietary choices. It’s a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
Can my cat or dog enjoy this soup too?
While it’s tempting to share, it’s best to keep this delicious soup for yourself. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to pets. However, you can whip up a pet-friendly version by simply omitting those ingredients and giving them a taste without the added seasonings.
Crockpot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your crockpot to high. Add the salted butter and all-purpose flour together, cooking for about 5 minutes until it's well combined and slightly bubbling.
- Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Sauté until fragrant, then add celery and drained sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour in the broth and season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and cover your crockpot.
- Let the mixture cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, turn the heat to high, then stir in the Taccole pasta, baby spinach, heavy cream, and milk.
- Stir in the shredded provolone and grated parmesan cheese until melted. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
- Dish out your creamy soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme.