Crockpot Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese is a comforting, hearty, and easy-to-make version of the classic Italian dish. Layers of tender lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta cheese, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella combine to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the noodles perfectly tender, eliminating the need to boil them beforehand.

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves the traditional taste of lasagna but wants a simpler, hands-off cooking method. The slow cooker infuses the layers with rich flavors, resulting in a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it simplifies the process of making lasagna without sacrificing flavor or texture. The ricotta cheese mixture adds creaminess, while the mozzarella provides a golden, melty topping.

The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a tender, flavorful lasagna with minimal effort. It’s convenient, comforting, and perfect for busy days when you want a homemade Italian meal without standing over the stove.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it delivers the classic lasagna experience in an easy, fuss-free format. Perfectly cooked noodles, creamy ricotta, savory sauce, and melted cheese create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

It’s great for family meals, potlucks, or meal prep and can be customized with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses for variety.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 5 hours 20 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 6-8
Calories per Serving: ~400 kcal
Course: Main course
Cuisine: Italian / Comfort food

Ingredients

• 9-12 no-boil lasagna noodles
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of noodles over the sauce, breaking them to fit if necessary. Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then a layer of meat mixture, followed by sauce. Repeat layers, ending with sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 4: Cook the Lasagna
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until noodles are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Cut into portions and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Dice onion, mince garlic, and prepare meat.
2. Brown ground beef or sausage with onion and garlic; drain excess fat.
3. Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs in a bowl.
4. Spray slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
6. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat mixture, and sauce. Repeat until ingredients are used.
7. Finish with sauce and remaining mozzarella on top.
8. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
9. Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve

Serve hot with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. This lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad and balsamic dressing. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for added flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Use no-boil noodles to save time and simplify layering.
• Brown the meat for extra flavor, though pre-cooked sausage or ground turkey can also work.
• Let lasagna rest before slicing to maintain structure.
• Add a layer of spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added vegetables.
• For extra cheesy top, sprinkle additional mozzarella 30 minutes before the end of cooking.

Variations

• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add layers of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
• Mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese into the ricotta mixture for extra creaminess.
• Use a combination of mozzarella and provolone for a different cheese flavor.
• Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the sauce for a spicier or more herbaceous taste.

Freezing and Storage

• Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze uncooked layered lasagna in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Cooked leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Skillet for cooking meat
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon for layering and serving
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular lasagna noodles?
A: Yes, but cook them according to package instructions before layering.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Substitute meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the lasagna in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. Cook the next day.

Q: How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?
A: Use enough sauce on each layer and spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes, combinations like mozzarella and provolone or fontina work well.

Conclusion

Crockpot Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make version of classic lasagna. The slow cooker ensures tender noodles, creamy cheese, and rich, savory layers of meat and sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy homemade Italian comfort food. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it is a must-try recipe for any lasagna lover.