1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce (your favorite brand)
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
9–12 lasagna noodles, uncooked (no need for oven ready noodles)
2 cups shredded mozzarella (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to the meat. Simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, 1 cup grated Parmesan, and the egg. Mix until smooth.
3. Assemble the Lasagna in the Crockpot:
Layer 1: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
Layer 2: Add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them as needed to fit.
Layer 3: Spread 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
Layer 4: Top with 1/3 of the meat sauce.
Repeat Layers: Continue layering noodles, cheese mixture, and meat sauce until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
4. Cook in the Crockpot:
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
Turn off the crockpot and let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the lasagna in the crockpot the night before and refrigerate. Start cooking the next day.
Add Veggies: Layer in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the crockpot on the warm setting.