Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 onion , chopped
5 garlic cloves , minced
1 can tomato paste
3 cans crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup fresh basil leaf , torn
1 cup red wine
1 teaspoon sugar
hot red pepper flakes , to taste ( optional )
32 ounces ricotta cheese
3/4 cup romano cheese , grated , divided
16 ounces mozzarella cheese , divided , half cut into cubes , half sliced
1 egg , beaten
salt and black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley , chopped
1 package no-boil lasagna noodles , uncooked
Lasagna is a popular Italian dish that has become a classic comfort food in many homes around the world. This authentic Italian Crock Pot Lasagna recipe uses a slow cooker to create a dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. With layers of meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and lasagna noodles, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in with friends or family. The use of a slow cooker also makes this recipe perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm and comforting meal.

Instructions

1.Turn the slow cooker to high heat.
2.In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
3.Add in the ground beef and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4.Once the beef is browned, add in the onion and garlic. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
5.Add in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, basil, red wine, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until all ingredients are well-incorporated.
6.Turn off the heat and set aside.
7.In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Romano cheese, cubed mozzarella cheese, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and parsley.
8.Grease the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
9.Add a layer of the meat sauce to the bottom of the slow cooker.
10.Add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them into smaller pieces if necessary to fit evenly in the slow cooker.
11.Add a layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles.
12.Continue layering the meat sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture until all ingredients are used up. Top off the final layer with sliced mozzarella cheese.
13.Cook on high heat for 4-5 hours or low heat for 6-8 hours, until the noodles are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

PROS

This authentic Italian Crock Pot Lasagna is a delicious comfort food that is easy to prepare in a slow cooker.
The layers of meat sauce, cheese, and noodles create a savory and hearty meal.

Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated, providing a quick and satisfying meal for busy days.

CONS

This lasagna recipe is high in calories and fat.
It should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and in moderation.
The long cooking time in a slow cooker may also be a disadvantage for those who prefer quick meal preparation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The protein in the ground beef and cheese provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth, while the vitamins and minerals in the tomatoes, onion, and garlic support overall health and immunity.
Additionally, the red wine used in the recipe has been linked to promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

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