FAQ About Lasagna

Making lasagna in a slow cooker is a convenient and hands-off method that results in a deliciously cooked dish. Here's how you can make lasagna in a slow cooker:

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 2 cups (480ml) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef or Italian sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper into the skillet with the cooked meat. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Layer the lasagna: Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces to fit the shape of the slow cooker. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange a layer of broken noodles on top, followed by a layer of sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce and cheese on top.
4. Cook in the slow cooker: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and heat settings of your slow cooker. You'll know it's done when the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Let it rest before serving: Once the lasagna is cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes with the lid off. This helps the lasagna set and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.