If you’re craving a truly soul-satisfying, family-friendly meal that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna is about to become your new favorite. Each bite layers rich, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella between perfectly tender noodles—all cooked right in your trusty slow cooker. It’s the classic comfort food you know and love, but with a “set it and forget it” approach that delivers big on flavor and convenience. Get ready to dig into the kind of hearty, bubbling Italian-American comfort that makes any night feel special!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna is how it brings together a handful of kitchen staples—the kind you probably have on hand already—into something completely irresistible. Each ingredient plays its own special role, adding depth, creaminess, or that melty cheese stretch we all dream about. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a tip for each:
- Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a rich flavor that won’t make your lasagna greasy.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and a savory backbone to the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the dish an authentic Italian aroma—don’t skip it!
- Italian seasoning: This blend brings those classic herb flavors right in with just a teaspoon.
- Salt: Enhances all the savory layers for a perfectly seasoned bite every time.
- Black pepper: A pinch wakes up the flavors with just the right amount of warmth.
- Marinara or pasta sauce: Pick your favorite jarred sauce for convenience or homemade for extra flair.
- Water: Helps the noodles cook perfectly all the way through in the slow cooker.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it’s the secret to that luxurious, slightly tangy middle layer.
- Egg: Binds the ricotta so your cheesy layers slice beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the cheese mixture—use dried parsley if that’s what you have.
- Uncooked lasagna noodles: No need to boil—let the slow cooker work its magic! Oven-ready or regular both work.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For the irresistible gooey, stretchy top and middle layers.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that helps the top brown nicely.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion has softened—about 5 to 7 minutes. Use your spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks for even coverage in each layer. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess fat to keep your lasagna deliciously hearty without being greasy.
Step 2: Season and Simmer the Sauce
To the cooked beef and onions, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give it about a minute to become fragrant (you’ll smell that cozy, Italian kitchen vibe!). Pour in your marinara sauce and half a cup of water, then mix everything together. Remove from heat—the sauce is ready to layer, and it’s packed with savory flavor.
Step 3: Mix Up the Ricotta Layer
In a bowl, combine your ricotta cheese, the large egg, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth and well blended—this mixture will create those creamy, luscious pockets that make lasagna so craveable. Don’t worry if it looks a little thick; the slow cooker will gently melt it into the layers.
Step 4: Layer It All in the Slow Cooker
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce over the bottom of your greased slow cooker to prevent the noodles from sticking. Add three uncooked lasagna noodles directly on top, breaking them as needed to fit into the corners. Spoon and gently spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with a full cup of mozzarella. Now, repeat: sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella, two more times. After your third and final layer, finish with any remaining sauce and a generous shower of grated Parmesan to crown the casserole.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook your Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna on low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the noodles are fork-tender and everything is bubbling gently. If the edges brown a little, that’s a bonus bite of cheesy flavor! When the time is up, turn off the slow cooker and let your masterpiece rest uncovered for 15 minutes—this makes slicing and serving so much easier.
How to Serve Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna
Garnishes
A handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil makes each slice pop with color and herbal brightness. For an extra-special touch, add a light dusting of grated Parmesan just before serving—it’s a little moment of restaurant magic at home.
Side Dishes
This lasagna loves company! Serve it with crisp garlic bread or a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or a fresh tomato-cucumber salad also make perfect partners, adding freshness and crunch to balance the rich, cheesy layers.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, try cutting the Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna into neat squares and stacking them on a large platter. For casual family meals, let everyone scoop straight from the slow cooker. Or for a potluck, pair each piece with a ramekin of extra sauce for dipping and watch your dish disappear first!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna keeps beautifully in the fridge. Cover the slow cooker insert or transfer slices to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to four days. It’s an easy lunch the next day—or even better after the flavors have had time to mingle.
Freezing
To freeze, let the lasagna cool completely, then cut it into squares. Wrap each portion tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then slide them into a freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. Perfect for future cravings or a ready-made dinner on a busy night.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge. Reheat individual servings in the microwave (covered with a damp paper towel) or warm a larger batch in the oven at 350°F until hot through. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before reheating for a fresh-from-the-oven taste!
FAQs
Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles for Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna?
Absolutely! Both oven-ready and regular uncooked lasagna noodles work wonderfully here. The slow cooker’s gentle heat and added water ensure whichever type Main Course.
Can I swap the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese?
Yes! Cottage cheese is a fantastic alternative and blends smoothly into the layers. It gives a slightly different texture but is equally creamy and satisfying, so feel free to swap based on your family’s preference.
How do I keep the lasagna from getting watery in the slow cooker?
Be sure not to add extra liquid beyond the recipe’s calls, and let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving so the layers can set. Using a thick marinara sauce also helps keep everything beautifully structured and scoopable.
Can I add vegetables to this Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna?
Definitely! Try folding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even diced zucchini into the meat sauce or ricotta layer. They add color, flavor, and bonus nutrition to every bite.
What size slow cooker works best?
A standard 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe, allowing enough room for layering and even cooking. If you have a slightly smaller or larger model, adjust the noodle arrangement and check doneness at the lower or higher end of the cooking range.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the cozy magic of Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna to bring everyone around the table, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering. Give it a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, and every bite will remind you just how simple and satisfying homemade comfort food can be!
Print
Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This easy slow cooker lasagna recipe is a convenient way to enjoy a classic Italian-American dish with minimal effort. Layers of pasta, cheese, and a savory meat sauce meld together perfectly in the slow cooker for a comforting meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Cheese Layer:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Additional Ingredients:
- 9 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease, add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, marinara sauce, and water. Stir well and remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and parsley.
- Layer the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the slow cooker. Layer with noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layering, finishing with sauce and Parmesan.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours until noodles are tender. Let sit for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Both oven-ready and regular lasagna noodles work well in the slow cooker.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *