Slow Cooker Lasagna

The first time I made Slow Cooker Lasagna, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. It was one of those chilly winter evenings, and the thought of curling up with a warm, hearty meal was just what I needed. The aroma of savory Italian sausage, bubbling mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a comforting embrace. As I layered the ingredients into my slow cooker, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me, reminding me of family gatherings where lasagna was always the star of the table. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a way to bring loved ones together, share stories, and create memories over each delicious bite.

What’s In This Slow Cooker Lasagna

The ingredients for Slow Cooker Lasagna work together harmoniously to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Each component plays a vital role in the overall texture and taste, making it an irresistible meal. The key players include the savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and the comforting layers of lasagna noodles. Together, they create a delightful harmony that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

• 1 pound Italian sausage: This is the base of the dish, providing a rich and savory flavor that permeates throughout.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the savory notes of the sausage.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, contributing acidity and a rich tomato flavor.
• 6 ounces tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor, creating a robust sauce.
• 1 cup water: Helps to meld all the flavors together, ensuring the sauce is perfectly moist.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 tablespoon oregano: Adds a fragrant herbaceous note, reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.
• 9 No-Boil lasagna noodles: Convenient and easy to use, creating the perfect layers without the hassle of pre-cooking.
• 3 cups baby spinach: Introduces a fresh and healthy element, adding color and nutrients.
• 16 ounces ricotta: Creamy and rich, it adds a luxurious texture that’s essential for lasagna.
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded: The melty topping that brings everything together, creating a bubbly, cheesy crust.

Putting Together Slow Cooker Lasagna

Making Slow Cooker Lasagna is an enjoyable process that rewards you with a comforting meal at the end. Let’s dive into the steps together!

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage and onion until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want to see the sausage crumbling and getting nice and golden, while the onion adds a beautiful sweetness.

2. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal.

3. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, salt, and oregano. Mix everything together until well incorporated. The colors should blend beautifully, creating a rich, red sauce.

4. Layer the bottom of your slow cooker with 1 cup of the sauce. This will prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom.

5. Add a layer of lasagna noodles to fit in the pan, then spoon over a generous layer of the meat sauce mixture. You want to cover the noodles completely to ensure they cook evenly.

6. Next, add a layer of baby spinach, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese. The creaminess of the ricotta will seep into the layers, creating a delightful texture.

7. Repeat layering two more times: noodles, meat sauce, spinach, and ricotta. Don’t forget to top with any remaining sauce and finish with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top.

8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours. During this time, the ingredients will meld together beautifully, and the house will smell incredible.

9. Once cooked, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set a bit, making it easier to cut and serve. The cheese should be bubbly and golden.

10. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired, and enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite of your Slow Cooker Lasagna.

Recipe Notes about Slow Cooker Lasagna

When making Slow Cooker Lasagna, a few tips can help you get the most out of this recipe. Here are some words of wisdom!

• Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well before freezing.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based alternative or add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

What Complements This Slow Cooker Lasagna

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Lasagna, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Side Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the combination of warm, crispy garlic bread with cheesy lasagna.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice complements the flavors beautifully.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is great for potlucks or family dinners where everyone can dig in together.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables can make a colorful and nutritious side!

FAQ

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Lasagna is truly a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich layers of flavor and cheesy goodness make it a family favorite that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to try making it for your next dinner; I promise it will become a staple in your home just like it has in mine. So grab your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the magic!

Slow Cooker Lasagna

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Lasagna is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 unit onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 16 ounces ricotta
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese shredded

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage and onion until browned and translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, salt, and oregano. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Layer the bottom of the slow cooker with 1 cup of the sauce.
5. Add a layer of lasagna noodles to fit, followed by the meat sauce.
6. Add a layer of spinach and dollops of ricotta.
7. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with sauce and mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours.
9. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

When storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. This dish pairs wonderfully with a salad or garlic bread.

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Meet Blaire Holloway

Taking traditional feast recipes and giving them a modern, vibrant twist is what drives me. I want to keep your menu exciting and fresh. I handled the cooking and photography for this recipe, working to bridge the gap between classic comfort and contemporary flavor for your table.