Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs

There’s something magical about a warm, bubbling lasagna fresh out of the slow cooker. This Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs is everything you love about this classic comfort food, but without the hassle. With its rich, meaty sauce, creamy cheese layers, and fresh herb garnish, it’s the perfect dish to wow your family or friends. And the best part? The slow cooker does most of the work for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes the stress out of lasagna preparation while delivering all the flavor you crave. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles, hearty meat sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses, all infused with the aromatic touch of fresh herbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd with minimal effort.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation.

Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs

Category	Ingredient	Quantity
Meat Sauce	Olive oil	2 tablespoons
	Italian pork sausage	1 pound
	Ground beef	1 pound
	Garlic cloves, minced	2
	Sweet onion, chopped	1/2 cup
	Carrots, diced	3
	Celery stalks, diced	2
	Diced tomatoes (15 oz can)	1 can
	Tomato sauce (15 oz can)	1 can
	Tomato paste (6 oz can)	1 can
	Dried oregano	1 teaspoon
	Dried thyme	1/2 teaspoon
Lasagna Layers	Lasagna noodles (uncooked)	9-10
	Shredded mozzarella cheese	2 cups, divided
	Cottage cheese	1 1/2 cups
	Ricotta cheese	1 cup
	Parmesan cheese	1/4 cup
Garnishes	Fresh parsley, chopped	For garnish
	Fresh basil, chopped	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

3. Layer the Lasagna in the Slow Cooker

1. Grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or a bit of olive oil.
2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Place a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking them as needed to fit.
4. Add a layer of the cheese mixture, followed by a hearty layer of meat sauce.
5. Repeat the layers of noodles, cheese mixture, and sauce until all ingredients are used. Finish with a layer of meat sauce on top.

4. Cook the Lasagna

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
2. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes.
2. Slice into portions and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil.
3. Serve warm and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fat	22 g
Sodium	820 mg
Fiber	4 g

Tips for Success

• Layer Carefully: Spread the ingredients evenly to ensure the lasagna cooks uniformly.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley and basil adds a pop of flavor and freshness.
• Don’t Overcook: Check the lasagna around the 4-hour mark to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
2. Add a Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed green salad balances the richness of the lasagna.
3. Include a Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the Italian flavors beautifully.

FAQs About Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for a lighter version.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a vegetarian lasagna.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

4. Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes! Portion the cooked lasagna and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can use additional cottage cheese or even cream cheese as a substitute.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the meat sauce?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms are great additions to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with minimal effort. Its rich flavors and creamy layers make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress.

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