Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
Lasagna lovers, rejoice! This slow cooker lasagna recipe is a game changer for busy nights.
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate tossing everything into the slow cooker and letting it work its magic. The layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly tender noodles meld together beautifully.
Plus, it fills my home with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone enthusiastically await dinner.
What I love most is that it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever made lasagna any other way. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Lasagna
When it comes to making a satisfying meal, this slow cooker lasagna recipe has got you covered. The best part? You don’t have to babysit it like a new puppy. Just gather your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
So, what do you need for this delicious creation? Here’s the rundown.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (29 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups canned tomatoes, mashed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 (8 ounce) package no-cook lasagna noodles
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups small curd cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit. You might be tempted to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based alternative if you’re feeling adventurous. Go for it! Just remember that the flavor will change a tad, but hey, variety is the spice of life, right?
And about those no-cook lasagna noodles—don’t stress if you can’t find them. You can use regular noodles; just make sure to adjust the cooking time a bit. If you want a little more zing, toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs when layering. The world is your lasagna, after all.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Lasagna
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this mouthwatering slow cooker lasagna. First things first, grab your skillet and toss in 1 pound of ground beef, 1 large onion (chopped, of course), and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook these over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink—this shouldn’t take too long. Just keep an eye on it, and don’t let it turn into a sad, burnt mess.
Once your meat mixture is cooked, drain any excess grease. I mean, who wants a greasy lasagna? Not me.
Now, here comes the fun part. Add to your skillet a 29-ounce can of tomato sauce, 1 cup of water, a 6-ounce can of tomato paste, and 1.5 cups of mashed canned tomatoes. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Oh, the aroma will have you dreaming of cozy family dinners. Give it all a good mix and then head over to your ungreased 5-quart slow cooker.
Spread a fourth of your meat sauce at the bottom. Next, grab that 8-ounce package of no-cook lasagna noodles, break them into pieces (it’s oddly satisfying, right?), and layer a third of them over the sauce. Repeat the layers with meat sauce and noodles, then throw in a layer of 1.5 cups of small curd cottage cheese. Yes, cottage cheese. It may sound odd, but trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Keep going with one more layer of meat, then noodles, and finish with the remaining meat sauce on top. Now, cover that slow cooker and let it do its thing on low for 4-5 hours.
When the noodles are nice and tender, it’ll be time to crown your masterpiece. Sprinkle on 4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of parmesan cheese. Turn the slow cooker to high until the cheese melts—this is when you might hear angels singing in your kitchen.
And there you have it, a slow cooker lasagna that’s not just easy but downright comforting. Enjoy every cheesy bite, preferably with a side of good company.
Slow Cooker Lasagna Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve perfected the classic slow cooker lasagna, you might want to switch things up a bit.
I love experimenting with different proteins, like ground turkey or sausage, for a flavor twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
You can even swap out the cottage cheese for ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier texture.
Finally, consider using different cheeses—like provolone or gouda—for unique flavors.
Each variation brings something special to the table, making it a fun and versatile dish that never gets old!
Enjoy exploring your own creations!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Lasagna
Pairing the right sides with your slow cooker lasagna can elevate the meal and create a well-rounded dining experience.
I love serving a fresh green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette; it adds a revitalizing crunch. Garlic bread is another favorite of mine—it’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted vegetables bring a lovely earthy flavor to the table. For a touch of sweetness, consider a fruit salad or a light dessert like tiramisu.
These sides compliment the lasagna wonderfully and enhance the overall dining experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
When making slow cooker lasagna, a few simple tips can make a big difference in your dish. First, I always recommend breaking the no-cook noodles into smaller pieces; it allows for better layering.
Also, don’t skimp on the cheese—more mozzarella equals a creamier texture! If I know I’ll be busy, I prep the ingredients the night before; it saves time in the morning.
Finally, check your slow cooker occasionally; every model cooks differently. If it looks too watery, I let it cook with the lid off for the last 30 minutes. Enjoy your delicious creation!