Name: Easy Crockpot Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 40 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 box (16 oz) lasagna noodles, uncooked; 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg (optional, for ricotta mixture); 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Easy Crockpot Lasagna combines classic Italian flavors with the convenience of a slow cooker. Layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese meld together beautifully. This recipe is ideal for beginners or those seeking a low-effort, high-reward meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this Easy Crockpot Lasagna for its simplicity and flavor-packed results. Unlike traditional lasagna, there’s no need to precook the noodles or babysit the oven. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, creating perfectly tender pasta and melted cheese layers. It’s perfect for meal prepping, casual gatherings, or comforting weeknight meals, and cleanup is a breeze with one-pot cooking.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Layering: Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Alternate between noodles, meat sauce, and cheese layers.
No Overfilling: Leave space at the top of the crockpot to prevent bubbling over.
Cook Time: Avoid overcooking to maintain tender but structured layers.
Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna sit for 15-20 minutes before slicing for neat, beautiful servings.

Yield: 8 servings

Easy Crockpot Lasagna

A simple, hearty, and flavorful lasagna made effortlessly in a crockpot, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 5 hours

Additional Time 20 minutes

Total Time 5 hours 40 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 box (16 oz) lasagna noodles, uncooked
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg (optional, for ricotta mixture)
2 cups spinach, chopped (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Mix the Ricotta: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half the Parmesan, and egg (if using). Add chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
Layer in the Crockpot: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the crockpot. Add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them to fit. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture, followed by mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with a generous topping of meat sauce and mozzarella.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; noodles should be tender.
Rest and Serve: Turn off the crockpot and let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For crispier edges, transfer to a broiler-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes after cooking.
Add extra marinara on the side for saucier servings.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 373Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 119mgSodium 572mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 33g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Lasagna Noodles: Use regular, uncooked lasagna noodles; no need to boil them. They cook perfectly in the sauce.
Ground Meat: Ground beef, turkey, or a mix of beef and Italian sausage adds hearty flavor. Substitute with plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Trio: Ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for gooeyness, and Parmesan for a savory punch. Cottage cheese can replace ricotta for a lighter option.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or make your own for ultimate customization. Look for one with robust seasoning for best results.
Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your marinara is gluten-free.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
Cheese Variations: Try adding provolone or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.
Low Carb: Replace lasagna noodles with layers of thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezer: Assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe crockpot liner, freeze for up to 3 months, and cook directly from frozen (adjust cooking time).
Meal Prep: Portion into single servings and freeze for quick, delicious meals anytime.