Description
This Crockpot Lasagna is a comforting, easy-to-make recipe that layers uncooked lasagna noodles with browned ground beef, rich cottage cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, all simmered slowly in a flavorful spaghetti sauce. Perfectly cooked in the slow cooker for a melty, hearty dish with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Pasta & Sauce
- Lasagna noodles (uncooked) – approximately 9-12 noodles
- 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
Cheese
- 1½ cups cottage cheese
- 1½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked through. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to ensure the lasagna is not greasy.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Pour 1 cup of spaghetti sauce into the bottom of a 4-quart slow cooker to form the base layer.
- Layer the Lasagna: Lay down 2 uncooked lasagna noodles in the slow cooker, breaking them if needed to fit. Spread one-third of the browned beef evenly over the noodles, then add ¾ cup of cottage cheese, followed by ½ cup of grated mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times: noodles, beef, cottage cheese, and mozzarella.
- Top Layer: For the final layer, place noodles, then the remaining beef mixture, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful finish.
- Cook the Lasagna: Cover the slow cooker and cook the lasagna on low heat for about 4 hours. The noodles should become tender, and the cheese should melt and become bubbly by the end of cooking.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the lasagna from the slow cooker, cut into servings, and serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- Ensure your slow cooker is at least 4 quarts to accommodate the lasagna layers properly.
- If your slow cooker runs hot, check the lasagna around 3.5 hours to prevent overcooking.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- For added flavor, consider mixing Italian seasoning into the beef before layering.
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before serving to help it set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
