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Simple Crockpot Lasagna

A delightful and comforting lasagna made easily in a slow cooker, delivering classic flavors without the hassle.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb extra-lean ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or pre-cooked sausage.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 jars tomato sauce (22 fl oz each) Recommend Classico sweet basil marinara.
  • 1/2 cup water Helps cook the noodles evenly.
Lasagna Layers
  • 1 lb uncooked lasagna noodles No-boil noodles can be used.
  • 1 tub ricotta cheese (16.8 oz) Consider adding cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Reserve some for topping.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, brown the extra-lean ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
  2. Once nearly cooked through, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, stirring to combine.
  3. Pour in one jar of tomato sauce and mix well; allow to meld for a few minutes before removing from heat.
  4. Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and spoon some meat sauce on the bottom to create a base layer.
Layering
  1. Layer uncooked lasagna noodles over the meat sauce, breaking to fit.
  2. Add dollops of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with mozzarella over the noodles.
  3. Top with more meat sauce from the pan.
  4. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used; typically three layers.
  5. Pour the second jar of tomato sauce on the top layer and sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese.
  6. Gently pour the water around the sides to help cook noodles evenly.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours, until noodles are tender and cheese is bubbly.
  2. Let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or basil.

Notes

This lasagna pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. You may freeze leftovers in individual portions for later use. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.