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This Slow Cooker Lasagna is a cozy dinner that’s super easy to make! Just layer noodles, cheese, and yummy sauce, and let the slow cooker do the hard work for you.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both provide a delicious base for the lasagna. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. You can also use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version!
Lasagna Noodles: I recommend no-boil noodles for this slow cooker dish. They save time and absorb moisture well. Regular lasagna noodles are fine too; just soak them in hot water first to help them soften.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds a creamy texture, but if you can’t find it, cottage cheese blended until smooth is a good substitute. I’ve even used cream cheese mixed with a splash of milk for a richer flavor!
Cheeses: Mozzarella is key for that gooey topping. Use part-skim for a lighter version or fresh mozzarella for a gourmet touch. Parmesan can be swapped with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Italian Seasoning: You can make your own blend using dried oregano, basil, and thyme if you don’t have pre-mixed seasoning. Fresh herbs would be delightful too, just add more for extra flavor!
How Do I Layer Lasagna Like a Pro?
Layering lasagna can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to get it right! Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, when you layer, remember: noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella—repeat!
- 1st layer: Spread some meat sauce on the bottom.
- 2nd layer: Place noodles, ensuring they’re slightly overlapping.
- 3rd layer: Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- 4th layer: Add meat sauce, then mozzarella.
- Repeat until you run out of ingredients, finishing with noodles topped with sauce and cheese.
Letting the lasagna sit after cooking allows the layers to set. This makes slicing easier and helps with serving. Enjoy creating those beautiful layers!
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Cozy Up with Slow Cooker Lasagna
What You’ll Need:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
For the Layers:
- 9-12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Finishing Touches:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting slow cooker lasagna will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 4-6 hours of cooking time. It’s a great set-and-forget meal that fills your home with lovely aromas while you relax and let the slow cooker work its magic!
Instructions:
Let’s get started! Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or Italian sausage) and chopped onion. Cook this mixture until the meat is nicely browned and the onion is tender. Don’t forget to add in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will add a wonderful flavor! Stir it all together and give it an extra two minutes of cooking to let those flavors meld.
Now, pour in the marinara sauce and stir it well with the meat. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes, and then go ahead and remove it from the heat. You want your sauce to be flavorful and delicious for when you build your lasagna!
In a separate bowl, let’s whip up the ricotta mixture. Combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s nice and smooth—this will create a creamy layer in your lasagna that you’ll love!
Next, grab your slow cooker and give the insert a good grease with some cooking spray or a splash of olive oil. This will prevent sticking and make for an easier cleanup later.
Start building your lasagna by spreading a thin layer of that savory meat sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker. Now, lay down a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. If you’re using regular noodles, you might need to break them to fit properly. No worries, it will all come together beautifully!
Now it’s time for the fun part! Spoon half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then follow up with a generous layer of meat sauce, and sprinkle some mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat this layering until all your ingredients are used up. Finish with a lovely layer of meat sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Yum!
Cover your slow cooker and let it do its thing on low heat for 4-6 hours. You want the noodles to be tender and the cheese melted to cheesy perfection. It’s hard to resist peeking, but try to wait!
Once your timer goes off, give the lasagna a little time to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it set nicely so you can slice it easily. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a touch of freshness and color.
There you have it! A warm, hearty slow cooker lasagna just waiting for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Cozy up and dig in—this is comfort food at its best!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier substitute. Just cook it the same way you would the beef, but be aware that the flavor may be a bit milder. You can enhance the taste by adding extra Italian seasoning or herbs.
What If I Don’t Have No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
If you only have regular lasagna noodles, no worries! Just boil them according to package instructions until al dente before adding them to the slow cooker. This will ensure they cook properly and absorb all that delicious sauce flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through!
