Imagine coming home to a heavenly aroma of bubbling cheese, creamy white sauce, and perfectly cooked lasagna - without spending hours in the kitchen! This crockpot lasagna is about to revolutionize your dinner game, offering all the decadent flavors of traditional lasagna with a fraction of the effort. Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who loves mouthwatering Italian cuisine, this recipe is your ticket to an effortless, show-stopping meal that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups white sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the white sauce by whisking together milk, butter, flour, and seasonings in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth and thickened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Lightly grease the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Begin layering the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of the crockpot to prevent noodles from sticking.
- Break uncooked lasagna noodles to fit the crockpot, creating a single layer to cover the bottom.
- Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of white sauce, ensuring even coverage.
- Repeat layering process: noodles, cheese mixture, white sauce, until all ingredients are used, typically creating 3-4 layers.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on the top layer for a golden, cheesy finish.
- Cover crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or until noodles are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow lasagna to rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to set and make serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- No Need to Pre-Cook Noodles: This recipe uses uncooked lasagna noodles, saving you precious prep time.
- Layer Strategically: Ensure even distribution of sauce and cheese for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Grease Prevention: Lightly spray or butter the crockpot to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor profile.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the lasagna sit for 15-20 minutes after cooking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add garlic, herbs, or a pinch of nutmeg to the white sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Check Moisture: If the lasagna seems dry, you can add a bit more white sauce during layering.
- Slow Cooker Variation: Cooking on low ensures tender noodles and prevents burning.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before cooking, perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 720kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 125mg
