Slow Cooker Lasagna is a comforting, hearty dish that brings all the traditional flavors of classic lasagna with the added convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it method. Layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese come together beautifully in the slow cooker, making it a perfect meal for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers all the deep, satisfying flavors of baked lasagna without the need to turn on the oven. It’s easy to assemble in the morning, and by dinnertime, a warm, cheesy, bubbling lasagna is ready to enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleaser, freezer-friendly, and perfect for feeding a family or entertaining guests. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with just one pot to deal with.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef or Italian sausage
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Onion, finely chopped
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Garlic, minced
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Crushed tomatoes
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Tomato sauce
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Tomato paste
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Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper
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Lasagna noodles (uncooked)
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Ricotta cheese
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Egg
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Shredded mozzarella cheese
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
directions
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I start by browning the ground beef or sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s mostly cooked, I add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
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Then I stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for a few minutes to deepen the flavor.
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In a separate bowl, I mix the ricotta cheese with an egg and a little bit of Parmesan cheese for that creamy, tangy filling.
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To assemble, I spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. Then I layer uncooked lasagna noodles (breaking them to fit), followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture and mozzarella cheese. I repeat the layers until everything is used up, ending with sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
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I cover and cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the noodles are tender.
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Once done, I let the lasagna sit uncovered for 15–20 minutes before slicing to allow it to set nicely.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size. The slow cooker should be set on low and cooked for 4 to 5 hours. Letting it rest for 15–20 minutes afterward is key to neat slices.
Variations
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I sometimes use ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
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Swapping ricotta with cottage cheese works well for a different texture and slightly tangier taste.
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For added veggies, I layer in thin slices of zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach between the noodles.
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I like to spice it up with red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
storage/reheating
Leftover lasagna stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. For freezing, I portion it out and wrap each piece individually for easy thaw-and-eat meals. To reheat, I microwave slices on medium power or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. A splash of water helps keep it from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep lasagna from getting watery in the slow cooker?
I make sure to use a thick sauce and avoid adding too much liquid. Letting the lasagna rest before serving also helps it set and absorb any extra moisture.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, I can use no-boil noodles in this recipe. They actually work very well in the slow cooker and absorb just the right amount of moisture from the sauce.
Do I need to cook the noodles first?
No, there’s no need to pre-cook the noodles. The slow cooker does the job of softening them as it cooks.
Can I assemble this lasagna the night before?
Absolutely. I often assemble it the night before, keep it in the fridge, and then just place the insert into the slow cooker and turn it on in the morning.
What size slow cooker should I use?
A 6-quart oval slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. It gives enough room for layering without overfilling.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Lasagna is my go-to when I want a cozy, satisfying meal without much fuss. It’s packed with flavor, easy to customize, and perfect for feeding a crowd or saving for later. Whether I’m hosting family or just need a hands-off dinner, this recipe never fails to deliver.
