Slow Cooker Lasagna

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low
Total Time: 4.5-6.5 hours
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cooking Meat Sauce:

1. Cook Ground Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is softened.
3. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Transfer the cooked meat mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Simmer in Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and cook the meat sauce on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

Layering Lasagna:

1. Prepare Lasagna Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces to fit the slow cooker.
2. Layer in Slow Cooker: In the last hour of cooking, layer the broken lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce in the slow cooker.
3. Add Cheese Layers: In layers, add shredded mozzarella, dollops of ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan on top of the noodles. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
4. Cover and Cook: Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lasagna noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving:

1. Rest Before Serving: Turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Slice and serve the slow cooker lasagna directly from the pot.
3. Enjoy: Enjoy this easy and comforting slow cooker lasagna with your favorite side salad or garlic bread.

Note: Adjust the seasoning and cheese amounts to suit your taste preferences. This recipe can be customized by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese.