Crockpot Lasagna Recipe

This Crockpot Lasagna offers a delicious, hassle-free way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheeses, it’s perfect for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat.
2. Step 2: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the crockpot. Add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them as needed to fit.
3. Step 3: Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
4. Step 4: Repeat layers: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Finish with a final layer of meat sauce topped with mozzarella cheese.
5. Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes after cooking to set. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time and ensure even cooking.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat boost.
• Mix some egg into the ricotta to help the cheese layer hold together better.
• If your crockpot runs hot, check for doneness at 4 hours to avoid overcooking.

Storage

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Do I need to boil the noodles before using them in the crockpot?

No, uncooked noodles work well in the slow cooker because they cook gently in the sauce. Just be sure they are fully covered by sauce to soften properly.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for the beef depending on your preference.

Crockpot Lasagna Recipe

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4.5 from 768 reviews

This Crockpot Lasagna recipe delivers a comforting and hearty Italian classic made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Layers of savory browned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, tender uncooked lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese come together for a perfect no-hassle family dinner. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the noodles cook to tender perfection, making it ideal for busy days or potluck gatherings.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Italian seasoning to taste

Lasagna Layers

• 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat thoroughly to prevent greasiness. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning until well combined, and simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
2. Layer the Ingredients in Crockpot: In the crockpot, begin layering by spreading a bit of the meat sauce mixture on the bottom. Place lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking them as needed to fit. Spread dollops of ricotta cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, making sure to finish with a layer of sauce and remaining mozzarella on top for a golden cheesy finish.
3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours. The long slow cooking time will tenderize the noodles and meld all the rich flavors together.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooking is complete, garnish the lasagna with fresh basil leaves to add a vibrant herbaceous note. Serve warm and enjoy a comforting, hands-off Italian feast.

Notes

• Use uncooked lasagna noodles specifically labeled “no boil” for best results or break standard noodles to fit and ensure they cook fully.
• Draining the fat from the browned beef is important to prevent a greasy final dish.
• Adjust Italian seasoning to your taste; adding garlic powder or red pepper flakes can enhance flavor.
• The cooking time may vary slightly depending on crockpot brand and heat settings.
• Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to set and make slicing easier.

Keywords: Crockpot lasagna, slow cooker lasagna, easy lasagna recipe, Italian dinner, comfort food, ground beef lasagna