Description
Enjoy the classic comfort of lasagna without the hassle! This Slow Cooker Lasagna combines rich meat sauce, gooey cheese, and tender noodles into one effortless, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 (29-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 16 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 ounces cottage cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (12 ounce) package lasagna noodles
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the beef is browned.
- Drain excess grease and stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, and oregano. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined.
- Mix the Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, cottage cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to create the creamy cheese filling.
- Layer the Lasagna in the Slow Cooker:
- Spoon a layer of meat sauce onto the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add a double layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them as needed to fit.
- Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Repeat the layering process (meat sauce, noodles, cheese) until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is a generous portion of meat sauce.
- Cook the Lasagna:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to Low.
- Cook for 4–6 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp side salad.
Notes
- Noodle Choice: Use no-boil lasagna noodles for the best results. Regular lasagna noodles can also be used but may require slightly longer cooking times.
- Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American