If you’ve been hunting for the best slow cooker dinner idea that’s both hearty and hassle-free, this crockpot lasagna recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with rich flavors, creamy layers of cheese, and tender pasta, this dish checks all the boxes for a perfect family meal. Whether you call it crock pot lasagna, lazy crock pot lasagna, or just a lifesaver on a busy day, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table.
I love how simple this easy crockpot lasagna recipe is. There’s no need to pre-cook the noodles or spend hours in the kitchen. You just layer everything in your crockpot slow cooker, turn it on, and let it work its magic. When dinner time rolls around, you’ve got a delicious lasagna that tastes like you spent all day making it.
This recipe is perfect for those who love easy lasagne recipes simple, slow cooker pasta recipes, or even just a cozy lasagna dinner without the fuss. It’s one of those easy crockpot dinners that’s sure to become a go-to for your family. Let’s dive into this slow cooker lasagna—you’re going to love how effortless and flavorful it is!
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage (make sure it’s halal)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade if you have some on hand)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a little kick)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Other Ingredients:
- 8-10 lasagna noodles (no need to pre-cook them!)
- Extra mozzarella cheese for the top layer
Instructions
Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red chili flakes if using. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then set it aside.
Mix the Cheeses
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Assemble in the Crockpot
Start with a layer of the beef mixture at the bottom of your crockpot.
Add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them as needed to fit.
Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
Repeat these layers (beef, noodles, cheese) until you run out of ingredients. Make sure the top layer is the beef mixture.
Cook It Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. The noodles should be tender, and everything should be bubbling and delicious.
Finish with Extra Cheese
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top and let it melt.
Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop out big, cheesy portions, and serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Tips & Tricks
- Make it Spicy: Add some extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture if your family loves spice.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the cheese layer to sneak in some veggies.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can assemble this ahead of time and freeze it before cooking. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and pop it in the crockpot the next day.
And there you have it—comfort food at its best with barely any effort! I love how the crockpot brings out all those rich, hearty flavors while I’m off tackling my never-ending to-do list. Give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think. Did your family love it as much as mine does?
FAQs for Crockpot Lasagna with Italian Beef
Can I use regular lasagna noodles, or do I need special ones?
No special noodles required! Regular lasagna noodles work perfectly in the crockpot. They’ll soften and cook right in the sauce, so no need to pre-cook them.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the beef and Italian sausage and add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the layers. Use marinara sauce for added flavor.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna in your crockpot and store it in the fridge (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, set the crockpot and cook as usual.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Crockpot Lasagna with Italian Beef
Crockpot Lasagna with Italian Beef
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage halal
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes optional
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 container 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Other Ingredients:
- 8-10 lasagna noodles uncooked
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- Cook beef, sausage, and onion in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and chili flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Make the Cheese Mixture:
- Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
Assemble in the Crockpot:
- Layer beef mixture, uncooked lasagna noodles (break to fit), and cheese mixture in the crockpot. Repeat layers, ending with beef mixture.
Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
Top with Cheese:
- Add extra mozzarella cheese on top 15 minutes before serving. Let it melt.
Serve:
- Scoop and serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
And there you have it—a mouthwatering crockpot lasagna recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. This is truly the best slow cooker meal for busy days when you need something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for easy crockpot dinners, a simple lazy crock pot lasagna, or a flavorful lasagna dinner that the whole family will love, this recipe has you covered.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ease. With your crockpot slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, you can whip up this delicious lasagna for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special family gatherings. Plus, it’s one of those slow cooker pasta recipes that you’ll keep coming back to, thanks to its rich, cheesy layers and hearty flavors.
So go ahead, give this crockpot lasagna easy recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out. It’s a perfect addition to your list of easy lasagne recipes simple, lasagne recipes, and reliable favorites. Your family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll love how effortless it was to make!
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