Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of lasagna, effortlessly cooked in your crockpot.
You’re about to discover how layering ground beef, marinara, and a cottage cheese-mozzarella blend creates a mouthwatering dish.
This recipe’s simplicity is perfect for busy weeknights, and you’ll appreciate how it pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad.
Ready to transform your lasagna game with minimal fuss? Let’s get started.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Crockpot
- 1 Large skillet
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 9 pieces lasagna noodles
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cook & Prep Time
To effectively manage your time while preparing and cooking Crockpot Lasagna with Cottage Cheese, follow this timeline:
Preparation Timeline:
- Reading and Gathering Ingredients & Equipment (10 minutes)
- Take a few minutes to read through the recipe thoroughly to understand the process.
- Gather all the ingredients and equipment needed: crockpot, large skillet, mixing bowl, wooden spoon, knife, and cutting board.
- Preparation (20 minutes)
- Minute 0-10: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Minute 10-15: Drain the excess fat and add the marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir until well combined with the beef.
- Minute 15-20: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Timeline:
3. Assembling and Cooking (4 hours)
- Minute 20-30: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Place three lasagna noodles on top, breaking them to fit if necessary. Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Minute 30-40: Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the remaining meat sauce. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Minute 40-4 hours and 40 minutes: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Use this time to clean up or prepare any additional dishes you might be serving.
4. Resting (10 minutes)
– 4 hours and 40 minutes to 4 hours and 50 minutes: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve.
Recipe Instructions
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, then drain the excess fat.
Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir until combined with the beef.
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the crockpot.
Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, breaking them to fit if necessary.
Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the remaining meat sauce.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that complements the Italian flavors of lasagna perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: A revitalizing side with crunchy romaine lettuce and creamy dressing to balance the richness of the lasagna.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy and colorful touch to the meal.
- Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, can enhance the savory flavors of the dish.
- Tiramisu: Finish the meal with a traditional Italian dessert for a sweet and satisfying conclusion.
Storage
To store crockpot lasagna, let it cool completely.
Then transfer it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing
To freeze crockpot lasagna, allow it to cool completely.
Portion into airtight containers.
Label with the date.
Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat crockpot lasagna, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for 2-3 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Lasagna is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and the ability to walk away while it cooks, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting taste of lasagna without the hassle of traditional oven baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ricotta Cheese Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely, you can swap ricotta for cottage cheese. I’ve tried it myself, and it gives a creamier texture. Just make sure you mix it well with other cheeses. Layer it carefully to maintain the lasagna’s structure. Enjoy!
How Do I Prevent the Lasagna From Becoming Too Watery?
To prevent watery lasagna, drain excess fat from beef and use thicker marinara sauce. Pat dry cottage cheese before mixing. Avoid adding extra liquid. Let it rest for 10 minutes post-cooking for firm layers.
Is It Possible to Use Whole Wheat Noodles for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat noodles. I’ve swapped them before, and they add a nutty flavor. Just make certain they’re fully covered by sauce to cook properly. Once I even added spinach for extra nutrition.
Can This Recipe Be Doubled for a Larger Crowd?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Use a larger crockpot or divide between two. Remember, it might take longer to cook. I’ve done it for family gatherings, and it was a hit every time!
What Wine Pairs Well With Crockpot Lasagna?
You’ll love pairing a bold red wine like Chianti or a fruity Merlot with your lasagna. Their robust flavors complement the rich, cheesy layers perfectly. Pour a glass, sit back, and enjoy a delightful meal!
Crockpot Lasagna with Cottage Cheese
Equipment
- 1 Crockpot
- 1 large skillet
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 9 pieces lasagna noodles
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, then drain the excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir until combined with the beef.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, breaking them to fit if necessary.
- Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the remaining meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
