Name: Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound extra-lean ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 yellow onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 jar jarred tomato sauce (any variety); 9 sheets lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular); 15 ounces ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese); 3 cups mozzarella cheese; 1 bunch fresh basil (or parsley)

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Why Make This Recipe

Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish known for its layers of cheesy goodness and hearty flavors. What could be better than making this cozy meal with minimal effort? The Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna allows you to enjoy all the deliciousness of traditional lasagna without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few fresh ingredients, a slow cooker, and a little patience, you can create a comforting meal that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up a dish with no fuss. Plus, the slow cooker makes it easy to have a hearty meal waiting for you after a long day.

How to Make Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna

This slow cooker lasagna recipe is incredibly simple, allowing you to layer flavors and ingredients with ease. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

1 pound extra-lean ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey)
1 yellow onion (can use white onions or shallots)
3 cloves garlic (freshly minced is ideal)
1 jar jarred tomato sauce (any variety, Classico’s sweet basil marinara recommended)
9 sheets lasagna noodles (use oven-ready or regular, break as needed)
15 ounces ricotta cheese (cottage cheese is a great alternative)
3 cups mozzarella cheese (add extra parmesan for enhanced flavor)
1 bunch fresh basil (fresh parsley can substitute)

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the yellow onion and mincing the garlic. If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, break them into smaller pieces so they fit better in the crockpot.
Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or ground turkey) and cook until it’s browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Tomato Sauce: Once the meat and onions are ready, add the jarred tomato sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat.
Layer the Lasagna:
- Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat-sauce mixture at the bottom of the crockpot (this prevents the noodles from sticking).
- Place 3 sheets of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. If you’re using regular noodles, you can break them to fit as needed.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
- Add a handful of fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
- Repeat the layering process: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and basil until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce topped with mozzarella cheese.
Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. If you’re using oven-ready noodles, start checking for doneness around the 4-hour mark. The cheese should be melted, and the lasagna should be heated through.
Serve: Once it’s ready, turn off the crockpot and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help set the layers and make serving easier.

How to Serve Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna

When serving this delicious lasagna, you have a few options. It’s wonderful on its own, but you might want to add a fresh salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. To serve, use a spatula to scoop out portions and layer on plates. Garnish with extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. A glass of red wine can complement this dish beautifully for an adult dinner.

How to Store Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna

If you have leftovers (though that might be unlikely!), storing them is simple. Let any leftover lasagna cool to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It should be good for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for future meals. To freeze, cut into individual servings, place them in airtight containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna

Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the lasagna to rest after cooking helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Experiment with Sauces: Different tomato sauces can change the flavor dramatically. Try a spicier sauce for a kick or a creamy sauce for a different texture.
Cheese: For added richness, feel free to mix in some grated parmesan cheese with the ricotta and mozzarella.
Layer Carefully: Be mindful not to overfill your crockpot with layers. Keeping it to about 3 layers will ensure it cooks properly.
Herbs and Seasonings: Feel free to add additional herbs such as oregano or thyme to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Variation

There are many ways to give this lasagna a little twist:

Veggie Lasagna: Replace the meat with sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the veggies are cooked before layering.
Add Spinach: You may include fresh or frozen spinach layered in with the ricotta cheese for added nutrition.
Sausage Addition: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier flavor. You can combine different kinds of meat too.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles. Make sure to check the cooking time as it may vary depending on the noodles.

FAQs

1. How long will the crockpot lasagna take to cook?
The Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat. Cooking time can vary based on your slow cooker model and the type of noodles used.

2. Can I use homemade tomato sauce?
Absolutely! If you have a homemade tomato sauce, it can add an even fresher taste to the lasagna. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned.

3. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients and layer them in the crockpot the night before. Store it in the refrigerator overnight, then cook it the next day. Just add 30-60 minutes to the cooking time since it will start out cold.

4. Is it okay to freeze the lasagna?
Yes, cooked lasagna can be frozen for 2-3 months. Make sure to slice it into portions for easy reheating.

5. What can I serve with lasagna?
Lasagna pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy creating this tasty, cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly! The Easiest Ever Crockpot Lasagna is a celebration of flavors, layering comfort and love into every bite.