Slow Cooker Lasagna Dinner

Try this super simple protein recipe tonight. It’s so yummy the family will love it! I serve it with a side salad. Your family will think you cooked all day making it. It’s that good! I substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese. With the cottage cheese substitution, the lasagna will still be creamy and delicious, but with a slightly different texture, flavor and reduced calories

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 container (15 oz) cottage cheese (drained)
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oven-ready lasagna noodles (you may need to break them to fit)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, water, Italian seasoning, and cooked meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Stir until smooth. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the cottage cheese before mixing.
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
   • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
   • Add a layer of lasagna noodles, breaking them to fit as needed.
   • Spread 1/3 of the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles, then spoon 1/3 of the sauce over the top.
   • Repeat layers (noodles, cottage cheese mixture, sauce) two more times, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4-5 hours or until the noodles are tender.
7. Serve: Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

See my beverage pairings below that will compliment the lasagna.

Here are a few drink recommendations that would pair wonderfully with your slow cooker lasagna:

1. Red Wine

• Chianti: A classic Italian red that complements the rich, savory flavors of the lasagna. Its acidity helps cut through the cheese and meat.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: Full-bodied with dark fruit flavors, perfect for hearty lasagna with meat sauce.
• Merlot: Softer than Cabernet, Merlot has smooth tannins and is a versatile choice for a lasagna with either meat or vegetarian options.

2. White Wine

• Pinot Grigio: Crisp and light, Pinot Grigio provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna without overpowering the dish.
• Sauvignon Blanc: With its herbaceous and citrus notes, this white wine pairs well with a lasagna that includes herbs and tomato-based sauces.

3. Beer

• Amber Ale: A medium-bodied beer with a slight sweetness and malty flavor that complements the tomato sauce and cheeses in lasagna.
• Pilsner: A crisp, refreshing beer that balances out the heaviness of the lasagna and enhances its flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Stout: For a more robust pairing, a stout with its roasted coffee and chocolate flavors can provide an interesting contrast to the savory lasagna.

4. Non-Alcoholic Options

• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, lightly tart drink that helps cleanse the palate between bites.
• Iced Tea (Lemon or Peach): A lightly sweetened iced tea offers a gentle contrast to the lasagna’s richness.
• Cranberry or Pomegranate Juice: The tartness of these juices can balance the flavors of the lasagna, especially if it has a bit of sweetness in the sauce.

5. Cocktail

• Negroni: An Italian classic made with gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari. The bitterness of the Campari complements the savory, rich lasagna.
• Italian Spritz: Made with Prosecco, Aperol, and a splash of soda, this light, bubbly cocktail adds a refreshing touch to a rich meal.

These drinks should pair perfectly with your slow-cooked lasagna, depending on whether you’re in the mood for wine, beer, or something lighter!