Slow Cooker Cheesy Lasagna Pasta
If you’re craving comfort food that’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly easy to prepare, our Slow Cooker Cheesy Lasagna Pasta is the perfect dish for you. Designed for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep days, this one-pot wonder offers all the classic lasagna flavor without the hassle of layering noodles and baking for hours. This hearty, satisfying meal brings together tender pasta, robust marinara sauce, seasoned ground beef, and layers of melted cheese — all slow-cooked to perfection.
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Ingredient List for Slow Cooker Cheesy Lasagna Pasta
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| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Marinara sauce | 1 jar (24 ounces) |
| Diced tomatoes (with juice) | 1 can (14 ounces) |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Penne pasta (uncooked) | 8 ounces |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil (optional) | For garnish |
| Grated Parmesan (optional) | For serving |
| Olive oil | For greasing slow cooker |
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Lasagna Pasta
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy final dish.
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2. Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same pan, sauté diced onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and translucent. This step enhances the flavor base for the sauce.
3. Build the Flavorful Sauce
Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the spices to meld. This thick, herby sauce will act as the perfect base for your lasagna pasta.
4. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil. Begin by adding a small amount of the sauce mixture to the bottom. Then, create layers using:
-
A scoop of uncooked penne pasta
-
A generous layer of sauce
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A sprinkling of mozzarella cheese
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Dollops of ricotta cheese
Repeat these layers, finishing with a top layer of sauce and mozzarella.
5. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model. Pasta should be al dente and cheese fully melted and bubbly.
Tip: Avoid overcooking — check pasta texture at the 4-hour mark to prevent it from becoming mushy.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let the dish sit uncovered for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it set slightly for easier serving. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the delicious layers of cheesy, hearty lasagna flavor in every bite.
