Crockpot lasagna

 Homemade lasagna prepared in a slow cooker is a delightful dish. Below is a straightforward recipe for Crockpot Lasagna:

Ingredients:

– 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage

– 1 jar (24 oz/700g) marinara or spaghetti sauce

– 1 can (15 oz/425g) ricotta or cottage cheese

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 egg

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1 package (8 oz/225g) lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)

– Optional: chopped vegetables (such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

– In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

– Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

– In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Blend thoroughly.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

– Begin by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker.

– Place uncooked lasagna noodles on top (breaking them as necessary to fit).

– Add a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles.

– Follow with a layer of meat sauce.

– Continue layering (noodles, cheese, sauce) until all ingredients are utilized, ensuring the final layer is sauce.

4. Cook:

– Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.

5. Add Final Cheese:

– In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and allow it to melt.

6. Serve:

– Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to facilitate easier serving.