Slow Cooker Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (6-ounce) cans tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Break the noodles as needed to fit.
- Spread a portion of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Enjoy your hearty, homemade slow cooker lasagna! It’s a great way to enjoy a classic comfort meal with minimal effort.
This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd and is perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.