Description
This Crockpot Lasagna is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of lasagna into a convenient slow cooker meal. Featuring savory Italian sausage, perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, marinara sauce, and gooey layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it offers a hands-off approach to a beloved Italian favorite, ideal for easy meal prep and delicious family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Sauce
- 375 grams Italian sausage (mild or spicy, ¾ lb)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Lasagna Layers
- 9 lasagna noodles (not oven ready)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the sausage and onion: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage and diced onion until the sausage is completely browned and the onion is softened. This step ensures the meat is fully cooked and the flavors meld.
- Combine sauce ingredients: Stir the marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper into the browned sausage and onion mixture. This forms the savory sauce that will flavor the lasagna layers.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly grease a 2.5 to 4-quart slow cooker, preferably an oval casserole style to maximize surface area. Spread a little sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Layer the lasagna: Place 3 lasagna noodles at the bottom of the slow cooker, breaking them as needed to fit. Spoon 1/3 of the sausage and sauce mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella and 1/3 of the Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat this layering process two more times for a total of three layers. If you have extra noodles or sauce, you may add a fourth layer.
- Cook the lasagna: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the lasagna noodles are tender and fully cooked through.
- Rest before serving: After turning off the slow cooker, let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes to set, which will help it firm up for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- This recipe offers a convenient way to enjoy classic lasagna without using the oven, perfect for busy days.
- Using an oval slow cooker with a larger surface area helps the lasagna cook more evenly.
- Feel free to swap mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preferred spice level.
- You can add extra layers if your slow cooker size allows, adjusting ingredients accordingly.
- Letting the lasagna rest after cooking helps it hold its shape better when served.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 528 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 1416 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 79 mg
