Easy Crockpot Lasagna: A Comfort Food Delight
Lasagna is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With this easy crockpot lasagna recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the hassle of layering and baking in the oven. Perfect for busy families, this dish requires minimal prep time and is a great way to feed a crowd. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
4 hours
Total Time
4 hours 20 minutes
Servings
8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce
- 12 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
- In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Break lasagna noodles to fit the crockpot, layering them over the sauce.
- Add half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of the meat mixture, then some marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat mixture, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese until all ingredients are used, ending with marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your comforting crockpot lasagna!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Lasagna
This crockpot lasagna is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, hearty meal without the fuss. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables if you want to add spinach or zucchini!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Lasagna
- Use No-Boil Noodles: They work perfectly in the slow cooker and save you prep time.
- Layer Wisely: Be sure to distribute the sauce and fillings evenly for the best texture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or gouda for added flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your crockpot lasagna with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine can also enhance the flavors and make for a delightful dining experience.
Conclusion
With this easy crockpot lasagna recipe, you’ll have a delightful comfort food ready with minimal effort. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, hearty goodness that this dish brings!
