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Crockpot Lasagna

Crockpot Lasagna

Say hello to a fuss-free, cozy feast with this Crockpot Lasagna: tender noodles, rich marinara, and layers of creamy ricotta and gooey cheese come together in your slow cooker for a hearty, family-friendly Italian dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 no-boil lasagna noodles (Barilla or store brand)
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey (grass-fed if possible)
  • 2 24 oz jars marinara sauce (Rao’s for a richer flavor)
  • 1 ½ cups part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella (freshly shredded melts best)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (100% Parmigiano-Reggiano if you can find it)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (helps bind the cheese layer)
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning (homemade mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced fresh garlic)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the ground beef (or turkey) until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
  • Pour both jars of marinara into the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so flavors meld. Then turn off the heat.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta, beaten egg, garlic powder, remaining Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. It should be smooth and scoopable—add a splash of milk if it’s too stiff.
  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker—this prevents noodles from sticking. Lay 3 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking them to fit if needed. Dollop a third of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Repeat the noodle–sauce–ricotta–cheese sequence two more times, ending with a generous mound of mozzarella and Parmesan on the top.
  • Cover and set your slow cooker on LOW for 4 hours. If you’re short on time, switch to HIGH for 2½ to 3 hours—but watch closely so it doesn’t bubble over.
  • When the timer dings, turn off the heat and let the lasagna sit, covered, for 15 minutes. This helps it set up so slices hold together beautifully.
  • Use a spatula to lift out portions, then sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad or garlic-buttered bread for the full Italian-dinner experience.

Notes

For a healthier twist, use whole-wheat or gluten-free noodles and add extra veggies. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcal
Keyword Comfort Food, Crockpot Lasagna, family-friendly, Italian Dinner, Slow Cooker Recipe
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