Craving a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss? This Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna recipe is your answer! Imagine tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, and layers of gooey, melted cheese, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This easy crock pot lasagna recipe brings all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this will quickly become a family favorite.
slice of crock pot lasagna on a white plate with slices of garlic bread in the background.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Lasagna
Before you dive into making this delicious Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna, let’s address some common questions to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful.
Can I substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese in this lasagna recipe?
While ricotta is a classic lasagna cheese, this recipe specifically calls for cottage cheese for a reason. Cottage cheese contains more moisture than ricotta, which is crucial in a slow cooker lasagna. Ricotta can sometimes become dry and crumbly in the slow cooker, especially if cooked for too long. Using cottage cheese helps maintain a luscious, creamy texture throughout your Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna. However, if you prefer ricotta, you can use it, but be mindful of the cooking time and check for dryness earlier.
Why might my lasagna burn in the crock pot?
Slow cookers have evolved over the years. Older models typically cooked at consistent, lower temperatures. Newer slow cookers, especially those with metal inserts, can heat up much more quickly, even on the “low” setting. This increased heat can sometimes lead to burning, particularly with recipes like lasagna where ingredients are layered. If you have a newer slow cooker or one with a metal insert, it’s recommended to check your Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna after 2-3 hours to prevent burning. This is why the recipe provides a cooking time range of 3-5 hours – to accommodate different types of slow cookers.
Important safety tip: If your slow cooker has a locking lid, do not lock it during the cooking process. Locking the lid is intended only for transportation. Cooking with a locked lid can cause pressure to build up, potentially leading to the lid shattering or the ceramic insert cracking.
Are no-boil lasagna noodles necessary for crock pot lasagna?
No-boil noodles are convenient, but they are not essential for this Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna recipe. Regular lasagna noodles work perfectly fine and are often more budget-friendly. This recipe includes added water to provide the necessary moisture for regular lasagna noodles to cook properly in the slow cooker without becoming dry or hard.
What are some great side dishes to serve with crock pot lasagna?
Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna is a hearty dish, so it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, classic garlic bread, soft garlic breadsticks, or cheesy garlic bread for a comforting and complete meal. For a salad, an Olive Garden-style salad would be a refreshing complement.
Can I make an Alfredo-style lasagna in the crock pot?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of creamy white sauce, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a delicious twist, try a Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. This variation replaces the traditional red sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich and flavorful white lasagna.
What if I don’t own a crock pot? Can I bake this lasagna instead?
This recipe is specifically designed for the slow cooker, and baking it in the oven won’t yield the same results. The slow cooker’s gentle, even heat is key to cooking the noodles perfectly and melding the flavors beautifully. If you’re looking for a baked lasagna recipe, try a traditional oven-baked lasagna recipe instead.
Why is water added to this crock pot lasagna recipe?
The added water is crucial for ensuring the lasagna noodles cook properly in the slow cooker. Since the noodles are uncooked when layered, they need extra moisture to soften and cook through. The water prevents the lasagna from drying out during the slow cooking process and helps create the perfect tender texture.
Can I freeze leftover crock pot lasagna?
Yes, leftovers of this Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna freeze exceptionally well. Allow the lasagna to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. For optimal freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen lasagna can be stored for up to three months. If not freezing, store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always let the lasagna cool down before refrigerating or freezing.
fully baked lasagna with melted cheese on top in the slow cooker.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna
For the complete recipe measurements, please see the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Ground beef: Using ground beef creates a classic lasagna meat sauce. For a richer flavor, you could also use Italian sausage or a blend of both.
- Onion: Diced onion adds savory depth to the meat sauce. Finely dice it for a smoother sauce, or leave it out if you’re not a fan of onions. A teaspoon of onion powder can be used as a subtle substitute.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor. However, jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
- Spaghetti sauce: Choose a good quality spaghetti sauce that you enjoy. Rao’s roasted garlic is a flavorful premium option, while Prego chunky garden is a more budget-friendly and readily available choice.
- Small curd cottage cheese: Provides a creamy and moist layer in the lasagna. See the FAQ section for substitution options.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese is essential for that classic cheesy pull. Using mozzarella with cream cheese can enhance melting and creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor. You can use pre-shredded parmesan or freshly grated.
- Egg: Acts as a binder in the cheese mixture, helping it to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
- Lasagna noodles: Regular, uncooked lasagna noodles are used in this recipe. No pre-boiling is needed.
ground beef, onion, garlic, spaghetti sauce, water, small curd cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg parsley, lasagna noodles.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crock Pot Lasagna Pioneer Woman Style
Let’s walk through how to make this incredibly easy and delicious Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna.
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, brown and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat. Using a large skillet is important because you’ll be adding the sauce and water directly to it later. Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant. Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste at this stage.
collage of two photos: brown and crumbled ground beef in a skillet; diced onions and minced garlic added to beef mixture.
Step 2: Create the Meat Sauce
Drain off any excess grease from the browned beef mixture. Return the skillet to the stovetop and pour in the spaghetti sauce and water. Stir everything together well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it gently simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste the sauce and add additional salt or pepper if needed. You can turn off the heat at this point.
collage of two photos: spaghetti sauce and water added to beef mixture in skillet; cottage cheese, egg, parmesan cheese and parsley in a clear bowl.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese, the egg, a pinch of pepper, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix all ingredients together until well combined. Set aside. Keep the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses in the refrigerator for topping the lasagna later.
Step 4: Layer the Crock Pot Lasagna
Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the lasagna from sticking. Spoon approximately 1 cup of the meat sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it evenly. This base layer will prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom.
collage of two photos: a little spaghetti sauce coating the bottom of the slow cooker; lasagna noodles broken up and put on top of sauce.
Next, create a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles. Break the noodles into pieces as needed to fit within your crock pot, overlapping them slightly to cover the sauce layer.
collage of two photos: cottage cheese mixture added on top of lasagna noodles; meat sauce layered on top of cottage cheese layer.
Spread a layer of the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, noodles, and cottage cheese mixture, until you have used up all the ingredients, ending with a final layer of meat sauce on top. You should be able to create about 3 layers in a standard 5-quart slow cooker.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Lasagna
Place the lid on the crock pot and cook on low heat for 3-5 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your specific slow cooker model (see FAQs). You’ll know the lasagna is done when most of the liquid is absorbed, and the lasagna noodles are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese Topping
Once the lasagna is cooked through, remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle with a bit more fresh parsley for garnish. Replace the lid and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
collage of two photos: shredded cheeses added on top of cooked lasagna; fully melted cheeses on top of lasagna in slow cooker.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Turn off the slow cooker and remove the lid. Allow the Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna to cool for several minutes with the lid off before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the lasagna set up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve neatly. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal! Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
a slice of slow cooker lasagna on a white plate with two slices of garlic bread toast in the background.
More Delicious Recipes To Try
Enjoy this easy Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna and explore more simple and satisfying recipes!
The Best Crock Pot Lasagna (+Video) – Recipe Card
(Inspired by Pioneer Woman)
This Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Lasagna recipe brings the classic comfort food to your slow cooker for an easy, hands-off meal. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (includes cheese melting time)
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Brandie @ The Country Cook (Inspired by Pioneer Woman)
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 26 ounce jar spaghetti sauce (or 32 ounce jar if needed)
- 1 cup water
- 15 ounce container small curd cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 8-10 uncooked lasagna noodles
- For topping: ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet, brown ground beef and diced onion. Drain grease.
- Sauté Garlic & Add Sauce: Add minced garlic, cook 1 minute. Stir in spaghetti sauce and water. Simmer 5 minutes, season to taste.
- Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, 2 tbsp parmesan, egg, and parsley.
- Layer Lasagna: Spray crock pot. Layer sauce, noodles (break to fit), cheese mixture, repeat 3 layers, ending with sauce.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low 3-5 hours, until noodles are tender.
- Add Topping & Melt: Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan. Cover and cook 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Rest & Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Video Recipe:
Recipe Notes:
- Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model. Check lasagna after 2-3 hours if using a newer or metal insert slow cooker to prevent burning.
- Do not lock slow cooker lid during cooking.
- A 5-6 quart oval slow cooker is recommended.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted for cottage cheese, but may result in a drier lasagna.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 498kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 27g | Sodium: 430mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.
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