Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna

If you’re craving the coziest comfort food with minimal effort, this Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna is about to become your new weeknight hero! Imagine layers of rich marinara, perfectly cooked noodles, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella—all gently melded together in your trusty slow cooker.

This recipe turns a classic Italian favorite into a fuss-free, one-pot wonder. No need to precook the noodles or babysit the oven! Just assemble, press start, and let the slow cooker work its magic.

It’s a total lifesaver for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who loves a good, hearty dinner without the hassle. We first made this for a Sunday potluck and it got rave reviews—now it’s a staple in our dinner rotation!

Perfect for feeding a crowd, freezing for later, or simply satisfying those lasagna cravings any day of the week.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking—just layer and let the slow cooker do all the work!
• So cheesy, hearty, and flavorful—classic lasagna taste with minimal effort.
• Feeds a crowd or makes plenty of leftovers for easy meal prep.
• Customizable with your favorite sauces, cheeses, or veggies.

Key Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

No-Boil Lasagna Noodles

These are the secret weapon for making lasagna in the slow cooker! They soak up the sauce and become perfectly tender without any precooking. Regular lasagna noodles can work, but make sure they’re fully covered in sauce to soften during cooking.

Marinara Sauce

A flavorful marinara is the backbone of this recipe, giving every layer a rich tomato flavor. Go for your favorite store-bought brand for convenience, or try a homemade version if you have extra time! You can swap in a chunky veggie sauce or even a meat sauce for added flavor.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta creates those classic creamy, luscious layers you know and love in lasagna. For a lighter version, you can use cottage cheese, or try blending ricotta with a little cream cheese for extra richness.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella brings the melty, stretchy goodness that makes each bite irresistible. I recommend using block mozzarella and shredding it yourself for best melting, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.

Ground Beef (or Italian Sausage)

A layer of seasoned, browned ground beef or Italian sausage adds savory depth and makes this lasagna extra hearty. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or keep it vegetarian by swapping in sautéed mushrooms and spinach.

Instructions for Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage), breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Drain excess fat if needed, then stir in the salt and pepper. Set aside.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture will make your lasagna extra luscious!

Assemble the Lasagna Layers

Coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer 3-4 lasagna noodles (breaking as needed to fit), then spread with a third of the ricotta mixture, a third of the browned meat, a handful of shredded mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and golden. Avoid opening the lid too often—this keeps the heat in and ensures even cooking.

Rest, Slice, and Serve

Turn off the slow cooker and let the lasagna sit, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.

Recipe Variations

Veggie Lovers' Lasagna

Swap out the meat and add layers of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. This makes an amazing vegetarian option that’s still rich and satisfying!

Gluten-Free Option

Use certified gluten-free lasagna noodles—they work beautifully in the slow cooker. Make sure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free for a worry-free meal.

Dairy-Free and Vegan

Substitute vegan ricotta and mozzarella (available at most grocery stores), and skip the egg or use a flax egg. You can also replace the meat with lentils or tofu crumbles for a plant-based twist.

Spice It Up

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your meat sauce or sprinkle in some Italian seasoning for extra flavor. You can also use hot Italian sausage for a bolder, spicier kick.

White Sauce Lasagna

Swap the red marinara for a creamy Alfredo or béchamel sauce for a deliciously decadent twist. Try mixing in some spinach or artichoke hearts for extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This easy slow cooker lasagna pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, classic garlic bread, and a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For a pop of freshness, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or fresh basil on top just before serving. Don’t forget a glass of Italian red wine to round out the meal!

For more dinner inspiration, check out this classic baked ziti recipe or explore other slow cooker comfort foods.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices on medium power until heated through, or warm larger portions in a covered baking dish in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. To freeze, let lasagna cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna (FAQ)

Q: Can I use regular (not no-boil) lasagna noodles?
A: Yes! Just make sure to add a little extra sauce to ensure the noodles cook through and soften completely in the slow cooker.

Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day ahead, refrigerate it, and then cook it fresh when you’re ready. It’s great for meal prep.

Q: What size slow cooker should I use?
A: A 6-quart oval slow cooker works best for even layers, but you can use a larger one too—just adjust the noodle layout as needed.

Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes! Cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta and will give a slightly lighter texture to your filling.

No matter how you layer it, this Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table! It’s hearty, comforting, and ridiculously simple—making it the perfect go-to dinner for busy nights. If you try it, let me know by leaving a comment or rating below. Happy slow cooking!