Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe

This Slow Cooker Lasagna is an easy, comforting twist on the classic Italian favorite—layered with tender noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty homemade meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making lasagna in the slow cooker means no boiling noodles, no babysitting the oven, and no stress! It’s a family-friendly, hands-off dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The layers cook up tender and flavorful every time—just assemble, set, and forget!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Jarred marinara sauce or homemade pasta sauce
• Tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• No-boil lasagna noodles
• Ricotta cheese
• Egg (for ricotta mixture)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) with diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg, a pinch of salt, and some grated Parmesan.
4. Spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick spray. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
5. Add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles (break to fit as needed), then spread ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and shredded mozzarella on top.
6. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until noodles are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people. Total cook time is 4-6 hours on low.

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding roasted vegetables.
• Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta if you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze cooked lasagna slices—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use regular lasagna noodles?

Yes, but no-boil noodles work best for the slow cooker. If you use regular noodles, make sure there’s plenty of sauce so they cook properly.

Do I need to cook the noodles first?

Nope! The beauty of slow cooker lasagna is that the noodles cook right in the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the lasagna in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day as directed.

What’s the best cheese for lasagna?

A combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan gives the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely—just skip the meat and add more veggies or use plant-based crumbles.

Why is my lasagna watery?

Some moisture is normal. Letting it rest before slicing helps the layers set. Using thicker sauce can help too.

Can I double this recipe?

If your slow cooker is large enough, yes! Be careful not to overfill—leave at least 1 inch at the top.

How do I prevent burnt edges?

Keep the heat on low and avoid overcooking. A liner or parchment paper helps too.

Can I use homemade sauce?

Definitely! A homemade meat or marinara sauce works perfectly.

How do I serve slow cooker lasagna neatly?

Let it rest for 15 minutes so the layers hold together, then slice with a sharp knife and use a spatula to serve.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lasagna is the ultimate weeknight comfort food—rich, cheesy, and full of hearty Italian flavors with almost no fuss. Once you try it, you’ll want to skip the oven and make lasagna this easy way every time!

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