Easy Crockpot Lasagna

Introduction

You can enjoy all the cheesy, meaty comfort of classic lasagna with a fraction of the hands-on work. This easy crockpot version layers everything into your slow cooker, where the uncooked noodles become perfectly tender. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy days.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds ground beef
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning (divided in half)
• 24 ounce can roasted garlic herb spaghetti sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided (you’ll need a 16 ounce bag or 16 ounce block))
• 2½ cups small curd cottage cheese ((you’ll need a 24 ounce tub))
• 1 large egg
• 12 lasagna noodles (NOT NO-BOIL) (uncooked)
• Fresh minced parsley ( optional garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown and crumble the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir one tablespoon of the Italian seasoning, the entire can of spaghetti sauce, and the beef broth into the cooked beef. Mix well and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, the remaining one tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and the egg. Stir until fully blended.
4. Spread a thin layer (about 1 cup) of the meat sauce into the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
5. Break 3-4 of the uncooked lasagna noodles into pieces to create a single, slightly overlapping layer over the sauce.
6. Spoon and spread one-third of the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle with ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat the layering process (noodles, cottage cheese, meat sauce, mozzarella) two more times.
8. For the final layer, arrange the remaining broken noodles over the last cheese layer. Top with the last of the meat sauce, ensuring the noodles are fully covered in liquid. Reserve the final 1 cup of mozzarella cheese for later.
9. After 3 hours, turn off the slow cooker, remove the lid, and sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Let it sit, uncovered, for about 15 minutes to allow the lasagna to set and the cheese to melt.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve.

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Layer in thin slices of zucchini, fresh spinach, or sliced mushrooms between the noodle layers.
• Creamier Texture: Substitute one cup of the cottage cheese mixture with an equal amount of ricotta cheese.
• Serving Twist: Instead of serving directly from the pot, use a large, wide spatula to lift out portions for a more structured plate presentation.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce as it simmers for a bit of heat.

Tips for Success

• Break the Noodles: Breaking the uncooked noodles into pieces (roughly 2-3 inches) is crucial so they fit the round shape of the crockpot and cook evenly.
• Don’t Peek: Resist the urge to open the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and steam, increasing the cooking time.
• Cover Noodles Completely: Ensure the top layer of noodles is completely covered by sauce before cooking to prevent dry, crunchy edges.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes after cooking helps it set up, making it much easier to serve clean slices.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or cover the whole dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes.

FAQ

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

No, this recipe is specifically designed for standard, uncooked lasagna noodles. No-boil noodles will become too soft and mushy in the slow cooker.

What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

Ricotta cheese is the best direct substitute for cottage cheese in this recipe.

Can I cook this on LOW instead?

Yes, you can cook it on LOW for 5-6 hours. Follow the same step of adding the final cheese only after the cooking time is complete.

My noodles are still hard after 3 hours. What happened?

This usually means the slow cooker lid was opened during cooking or the noodles on top were not fully covered in sauce. Ensure the top noodle layer is submerged.

Can I double this recipe?

This recipe already fills a standard 6-quart slow cooker. Doubling it is not recommended unless you have a very large (8+ quart) model.

Is the egg necessary?

Yes, the egg helps bind the cottage cheese mixture, giving it a better texture that doesn’t water out as much during the long cook.