Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe

Introduction

This slow cooker lasagna lets you skip the boiling and layering stress of the traditional method. You simply build it right in the crock pot for a hands-off dinner that’s packed with flavor and feeds a crowd. The result is perfectly tender noodles and a rich, hearty bake every time.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 240 minutes (4 hours)

Total Time: 270 minutes (4.5 hours)

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• non-stick cooking spray
• 16 oz. lasagna noodles ((uncooked) I use Barilla brand – Regular lasagna noodles, not no boil noodles.)
• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 1 white onion (diced)
• 1 tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. ground pepper
• 2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp. garlic powder
• 48 oz. Rao’s Marinara Sauce ((two 24-oz. jars))
• 1 cup water
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 15 oz. whole milk ricotta
• 1 cup shredded parmesan
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. dried parsley (or dried oregano or Italian seasoning)
• ½ tsp. garlic powder
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese
• dried parsley for garnish ((optional))

Instructions

1. Generously spray the interior of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir the 1 tsp. salt, ½ tsp. pepper, 2 tsp. Italian seasoning, and ½ tsp. garlic powder into the cooked beef mixture.
4. Pour in the Rao’s Marinara Sauce and the 1 cup of water. Stir well to combine, then remove from heat.
5. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 2 cups shredded mozzarella, 1 cup shredded parmesan, eggs, ½ tsp. salt, 1 tsp. dried parsley, and ½ tsp. garlic powder until fully combined.
6. To assemble in the slow cooker: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Break the lasagna noodles to fit and create a single layer over the sauce.
7. Spoon about ⅓ of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles and spread evenly. Sprinkle with about ½ cup of the 2 cups mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese. You should get 3 full cycles of these layers, ending with a final layer of meat sauce on top. Reserve the last ½ cup of mozzarella cheese for the end of cooking.
9. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt.
10. Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna sit, uncovered, for at least 30-45 minutes before serving. This allows it to set for cleaner slices. Garnish with dried parsley if desired.

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini and layer them with the ricotta mixture for added veggies.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while browning the beef for a touch of heat.
• Different Shape: Use this method with broken penne or rigatoni pasta for a “lasagna bake” texture.
• Individual Servings: Layer the ingredients in small, greased, oven-safe jars or ramekins placed in the slow cooker for single-serve portions.

Tips for Success

• Letting the lasagna rest after cooking is crucial for it to set and not be soupy when serving.
• Ensure your slow cooker is at least 6 quarts to fit all the layers comfortably.
• Breaking the noodles to fit snugly prevents gaps and helps the layers hold together.

Storage & Reheating

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or reheat larger portions, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I use a different brand of marinara sauce?

Yes, you can, but the flavor will vary. Rao’s is recommended for its thickness and rich taste, which works perfectly here.

Do I have to add the water?

Yes, the water is necessary to help cook the uncooked regular lasagna noodles properly in the slow cooker environment.

Can I cook this on HIGH to save time?

It’s not recommended. Cooking on LOW ensures the noodles cook through evenly without becoming gummy or burning on the edges.

My slow cooker is oval. Will it work?

Yes, an oval slow cooker works perfectly, and may even make layering the long noodles a bit easier.

Why are eggs in the ricotta mixture?

The eggs act as a binder, helping the cheese layer set firmly and making it easier to slice.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes, you can use small-curd cottage cheese as a direct substitute for the ricotta if preferred.