Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience! If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a rich, cheesy lasagna without spending hours in the kitchen, then this Ultimate Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Imagine layers of tender noodles, savory ground beef, and creamy ricotta, all bubbling together in a slow cooker while you go about your day. This dish not only serves up to 8 hungry guests but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into the easiest and most delicious lasagna you’ll ever make? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 jars marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbled pieces. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent and beef is fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture and return to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in one jar of marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly spraying the interior with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Begin layering the lasagna: Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker, then place lasagna noodles (breaking to fit if necessary), followed by a layer of the beef mixture, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layering process 2-3 times, ensuring the top layer is covered with sauce and cheese. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on the top layer.
- Cover slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature.
- After 4 hours, check that noodles are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow lasagna to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Cut into 8 equal portions.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping the beef mixture and cheese filling the night before. Simply layer everything in the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
- Layer Smart: Ensure your lasagna noodles are well-covered with sauce to prevent them from drying out. Don’t be afraid to break noodles to fit your slow cooker perfectly!
- Don’t Lift the Lid: It can be tempting, but resist the urge to peek! Lifting the lid can let out steam and affect cooking time. Trust the process and let the slow cooker do its magic.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the lasagna to sit for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
