There’s something absolutely heartwarming about a slow cooker lasagna recipe! I mean, who doesn’t love coming home to the rich aroma of melted cheese and savory marinara wafting through the air? This dish is a go-to for me, especially on busy weeknights when I want a comforting meal without all the fuss. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just layer your ingredients, set it, and forget it! My family absolutely devours this lasagna, and it’s become a cherished staple in our home. It’s perfect for gatherings too, as everyone gets a warm, cheesy slice. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to keep it in your meal rotation!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
To whip up this delicious slow cooker lasagna, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 lasagna noodles (feel free to use no-boil noodles for an even easier prep!)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (creamy and rich)
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, your choice!)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey, melty top)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory kick)
- 1 large egg (helps bind the ricotta mixture)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for that classic flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
These ingredients come together to create layers of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
Preparing this slow cooker lasagna is a breeze, and I promise it’s worth every layer! First things first, you’ll want to cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, then drain them and set them aside. Don’t worry if they feel a little firm; they’ll soften beautifully while cooking!
Next, grab a mixing bowl and combine the ricotta cheese, large egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture is going to be creamy and adds that delicious cheesy goodness to your lasagna.
Now, let’s layer it all up! Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your slow cooker—this prevents sticking and adds flavor right from the start. Then, lay down 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of your ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Wow, right?
Repeat these layers: noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce topped with mozzarella for that golden, bubbly finish. Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 4 to 6 hours. It’s hard to wait, but trust me, the aroma will be worth it!
Finally, let your lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into it. This helps the layers hold together beautifully. And there you have it—a comforting, hearty meal ready to be enjoyed!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal hands-on time
- Layers of cheesy goodness that melt in your mouth
- Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or meats
- Rich, comforting flavors that everyone will adore
- Less mess and easy cleanup—what’s not to love?
Nutritional Information for Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
This slow cooker lasagna is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per slice:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this comforting meal guilt-free!
Tips for Success with Your Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
To make your slow cooker lasagna truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, when layering, make sure to slightly overlap the noodles to prevent gaps; this helps keep everything together when it’s time to serve. If you want to add some veggies, consider sautéing spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini beforehand to enhance the flavor and texture. You can also mix in some cooked ground beef or sausage if you’re feeling adventurous—just be sure to drain any excess fat! Lastly, don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it allows the layers to set, making each slice a beautiful masterpiece. Trust me, these little tweaks can elevate your lasagna to a whole new level!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
When it comes to serving this delightful slow cooker lasagna, I love to keep it simple yet satisfying! A crisp, green salad is a perfect complement—think fresh romaine or arugula tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the lasagna.
And oh, garlic bread! You can’t go wrong with a warm, buttery loaf slathered in garlic and herbs. Just pop it in the oven while your lasagna is resting, and you’ll have the ultimate pairing. If you want to go the extra mile, a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables can add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
Storing your leftover slow cooker lasagna is super simple! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze individual portions by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for about 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through. If you prefer the oven, cover it with foil and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This way, you’ll keep that cheesy, comforting goodness intact!
FAQ Section
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! No-boil noodles are a fantastic option and save you some prep time. They’ll soften perfectly during the cooking process.
How do I know when my lasagna is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly browned. A gentle poke with a fork can help confirm if it’s set!
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker lasagna?
Yes! You can mix in sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prep the layers in advance and assemble them in the slow cooker, then just cook it when you’re ready for a delicious dinner!
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For tips on healthy eating, you can visit Eat Right.
Print
Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe: 5 Cozy Comfort Layers
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple slow cooker lasagna recipe that layers pasta, cheese, and sauce for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions and drain.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers ending with marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use no-boil lasagna noodles for easier preparation.
- Customize with vegetables or meat as desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: slow cooker lasagna recipe