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Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe with No-Boil Noodles Perfect for Busy Days

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A hands-off, comforting slow cooker lasagna using no-boil noodles, ground beef, and a creamy cheese blend, perfect for busy days and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 9 no-boil lasagna noodles (regular or whole wheat)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring often, until beef is browned and onions are softened, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, and parsley. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Spray slow cooker insert with non-stick spray. Spread a thin layer (about 1/3 cup) of meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 no-boil noodles over the sauce, breaking to fit if needed. Spread 1/3 of cheese mixture over noodles, then 1/3 of meat sauce. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with meat sauce and remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella on top.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Check at 4 hours; noodles should be tender but not mushy. Tent loosely with foil if edges dry out.
  6. Turn off slow cooker and let lasagna rest for 15 minutes with lid off to set.
  7. Sprinkle fresh basil over the top and slice carefully with a wide spatula. Serve warm.

Notes

Brown the meat first for better flavor. Use no-boil noodles to save time and avoid mushy texture. Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently to maintain heat. Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup. For variations, substitute ground beef with vegetables for vegetarian, or use gluten-free noodles or zucchini ribbons for gluten-free. Rest lasagna 15 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Nutrition

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