Introduction
When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, nothing beats a delicious Crockpot Lasagna. This classic Italian dish is a favorite among many for its layers of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or simply looking to meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. The best part? You can let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day, coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients
To make this Crockpot Lasagna, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs
– 12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
– 1/2 cup water
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Crockpot Lasagna:
1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the oregano, basil, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella, Parmesan, and eggs.
4. Spoon a layer of the meat sauce onto the bottom of the slow cooker. Add a double layer of uncooked lasagna noodles. Break to fit if necessary.
5. Top with a portion of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layering of sauce, noodles, and cheese until all the ingredients are used.
6. Add water around the edges of the slow cooker, ensuring that the noodles are moist and the edges are bubbling.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours.
Variations
There are several ways to customize this Crockpot Lasagna to suit your preferences:
– Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
– Add layers of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
– Experiment with different cheese combinations like provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for a unique twist.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crockpot Lasagna turns out perfectly:
– Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
– Let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
– Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crockpot Lasagna is a fantastic dish that brings together the classic flavors of Italy in a convenient and easy-to-make meal. Whether you are a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who loves good food, this recipe is a must-try. With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy a homemade lasagna that is sure to impress. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to savor every bite of this delectable Crockpot Lasagna.
FAQs
Q: Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles instead of regular ones?
A: Yes, you can substitute oven-ready lasagna noodles for the regular ones. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly as oven-ready noodles may cook faster.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Crockpot Lasagna?
A: Absolutely! Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the ground beef and substitute it with additional vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of Crockpot Lasagna.
This Crockpot Lasagna
A classic Italian dish with layers of rich flavors and comforting textures made in a slow cooker for a convenient and delicious meal.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
-
2 cloves of garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon dried basil
-
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
-
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
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1 1/2 teaspoons salt
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 cups ricotta cheese
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 eggs
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12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
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1/2 cup water
Directions
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In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in the oregano, basil, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
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In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella, Parmesan, and eggs.
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Spoon a layer of the meat sauce onto the bottom of the slow cooker. Add a double layer of uncooked lasagna noodles. Break to fit if necessary.
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Top with a portion of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layering of sauce, noodles, and cheese until all the ingredients are used.
-
Add water around the edges of the slow cooker, ensuring that the noodles are moist and the edges are bubbling.
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Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours.
