Crockpot Lasagna Soup

1. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, basil, fennel seed, nutmeg and black pepper, stirring and breaking up the beef with a spoon for 4-5 minutes or until beef is no longer pink. 
2. Add onion and garlic to skillet, and cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes. 

MAKE IT NOW

1. Place cooked beef mixture into a large crockpot. Add in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste and balsamic vinegar into a large slow cooker. Cover and cook LOW 6-8 hours/HIGH 3-4 hours. 20 minutes before serving, add in broken up lasagna noodles.  Cover and cook 20 minutes. Serve in bowls topped with a sprinkling of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, and a dollop of ricotta cheese. 

FREEZE IT

1. Place cooked and completely cooled beef mixture, broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar into a gallon-sized freezer bag. DO NOT ADD PASTA UNTIL COOKING Day. Seal, removing as much air as possible. Freeze.

THAW AND COOK

1. Place bag in a large bowl in the fridge and allow to thaw 24 hours before cooking. Place contents of bag into a large slow cooker. Cover and cook LOW 6-8 hours/HIGH 3-4 hours. 20 minutes before serving, add in broken up lasagna noodles. Cover and cook 20 minutes. Serve in bowls topped with a sprinkling of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, and a dollop of ricotta cheese.