Name: Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 5 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb extra-lean ground beef; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 (650 mL) jars tomato sauce (sweet basil marinara); 1 lb lasagna noodles (uncooked; oven ready or traditional); 1 (475 g) tub ricotta cheese; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup water; Cooking spray; Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

If you’ve ever wished for a fuss-free way to enjoy classic Italian comfort, then this Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Trust me, layering all those flavors and letting the slow cooker do its magic is pure kitchen happiness.

The image shows a round slow cooker dish filled with a layered baked meal, likely lasagna, with a top layer of melted golden brown cheese that has crispy edges and some darker toasted spots. The cheesy surface is scattered with small bits of green herbs evenly spread across, adding a fresh touch to the rich layers underneath. The dish is glossy with melted cheese bubbling slightly, revealing hints of a red tomato sauce peeking through in some spots, with the pasta layers visible as slightly wavy lines underneath the cheese topping. The slow cooker is black and sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can’t get over how simple it is to pull together this crockpot lasagna. It’s hands-off, cozy, and tastes like it simmered for hours because of that rich tomato sauce layered throughout. It’s become my go-to for family dinners and even casual entertaining.

Effortless prep: No pre-cooking of noodles means less hassle and mess.
Slow cooker magic: Just layer and set the timer for a deliciously tender finish.
Classic flavors: Seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella all melded in tangy tomato sauce.
Feeds a crowd: Yields 8 hearty servings perfect for family or leftovers.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Shopping for this crockpot lasagna is easy because the ingredients are staples you probably have on hand. I recommend using a good-quality sweet basil marinara for that rich tomato flavor without extra seasoning needed.

Flat lay of a raw pound of extra-lean ground beef formed loosely in a mound, a whole yellow onion with bright papery skin, two peeled garlic cloves, a small white ceramic bowl filled with vibrant red marinara tomato sauce, several uncooked lasagna noodles stacked neatly with a slightly translucent ivory color, a small white ceramic bowl of creamy ricotta cheese, a simple white bowl heaped with shredded mozzarella cheese, a small white bowl of clear water, and a few fresh sprigs of bright green basil and parsley arranged artfully, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Cooking spray: Keeps the slow cooker clean and lasagna from sticking.
Extra-lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein without too much grease.
Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic: Brings classic Italian flavor punch.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings everything together.
Tomato sauce: The star ingredient for that rich, comforting base.
Lasagna noodles: Uncooked oven-ready or traditional—both work well.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy layer that balances the tomato’s acidity.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection.
Water: Helps cook the noodles gently in the slow cooker.
Fresh basil or parsley: Bright, herby garnish that finishes the dish beautifully.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you like it meatier, cheesier, or packed with veggies, you can tweak it to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs without losing any of that comforting, savory goodness.

Ground turkey or chicken version: I swapped the ground beef for ground turkey once when I wanted a lighter meal. The result was just as tasty and packed with protein—plus, it feels a little fresher while keeping all those cozy lasagna flavors.
Vegetarian twist: For meat-free nights, try using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini instead of beef. I love adding a little extra garlic and herbs here to boost that rich tomato flavor.
Extra cheesy delight: If you’re a cheese lover like me, sprinkle in some parmesan or add an extra cup of mozzarella between layers. It creates those irresistible gooey pockets that everyone goes crazy for.
Herb variations: Swap out fresh basil or parsley for oregano, thyme, or rosemary to change up the aroma and give the lasagna a new personality each time you make it.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe

The image shows a slow cooker with two views side by side. On the left, the slow cooker is filled with a thick brown and red meat sauce that has small chunks of meat and bits of vegetables in a rich liquid. On the right, the same slow cooker has the same meat sauce base at the bottom, but it is topped with uneven slices of yellow lasagna noodles that are placed flat over the sauce. The slow cooker is black inside and sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth that has blue stripes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Start by heating a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the extra-lean ground beef and cook it until it’s just about done, breaking it apart so it browns evenly. Then toss in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper. Pour in one jar of that sweet basil marinara tomato sauce and stir everything together. Keep cooking for a few more minutes until the onions soften and the flavors blend beautifully. You’ll notice the aroma already hinting at the deliciousness to come!

Step 2: Layer the Lasagna in the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Start by spreading a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom. Then add a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles—don’t worry about breaking them to fit if you need to. Next, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese across the noodles, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Top that with more meat sauce. Repeat this layering process—noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, sauce—about three times until your slow cooker is full. The layers are your gateway to that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches and Water

Pour the remaining jar of tomato sauce evenly over the top layer of your lasagna. Sprinkle a final helping of mozzarella cheese to create that melty, golden crust. Pour ½ cup of water gently around the edges of the slow cooker—this little trick ensures the noodles cook fully and become tender as they soak up that luscious sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it either on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours. I often choose the low setting when I want the noodles extra tender and the flavors more developed, but if you’re short on time, the high setting still produces a fantastic, bubbly lasagna. When it’s done, the cheese will be melted into a bubbling golden delight, and the noodles perfectly cooked without any pre-boiling required.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once your lasagna is cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. This not only adds a pop of color but also a lovely herbal aroma that complements the rich tomato sauce. Serve warm and savor the comforting, cheesy layers of your effortless slow-cooked masterpiece.

Top Tip

Making Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe is wonderfully simple, but a few insider tips can make your lasagna turn out perfectly every time — tender noodles, melty cheese, and that deep rich flavor.

Choosing Your Noodles: I recommend using oven-ready noodles or breaking traditional noodles into smaller pieces to fit your slow cooker — it ensures even cooking without mushiness.
Layering Matters: Through trial and error, I found that starting with a bit of meat sauce on the bottom prevents sticking and helps build those perfect layers.
Water Around the Edges: Don’t skip pouring the ½ cup of water around the edges — it’s key for hydrating the noodles and preventing dryness.
Patience Pays Off: Cooking low and slow (6 hours on low) gives the best texture, but if time is tight, 3 hours on high works well without sacrificing much flavor.

How to Serve Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe

A thick slice of lasagna is served on a white plate, showing multiple layers including a golden brown melted cheese top sprinkled with green parsley, a reddish tomato meat sauce, and creamy white layers of cheese in between pasta sheets. The lasagna looks moist and has visible bits of meat within the sauce layers. Behind the plate, there are two slices of toasted golden yellow bread resting on a white and blue striped cloth over a wooden surface. Another portion of lasagna is in a white bowl in the background. The setting is bright with a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley brightens up the rich flavors beautifully. A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra touch of indulgence just before serving. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

Serve this hearty lasagna alongside crisp green salads, like a Caesar salad or a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is always a welcome companion to mop up every last bit of that delicious tomato sauce. For a veggie boost, roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli pairs nicely too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Crockpot Lasagna has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge, making it perfect for enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Freezing

This lasagna freezes beautifully! Portion it into airtight containers or wrap the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap before popping it into the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just cover loosely and heat in 1-2 minute bursts, stirring if possible, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat in this Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences or lighten up the dish.

Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?

No pre-cooking is needed! This recipe is designed with uncooked noodles that soften perfectly during the slow cooking process, especially with the added water around the edges.

Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the layers in the slow cooker insert, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, cook as directed—this makes meal prep super easy.

What if my slow cooker runs hotter or cooler than others?

Slow cookers vary, so check your lasagna at the minimum cooking time (3 hours on high or 6 on low). If noodles aren’t tender or cheese isn’t melted, simply add time in 15-30 minute increments.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Crockpot Lasagna with Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe becomes your go-to for stress-free family dinners that still feel like a special occasion. It’s comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor—all without the fuss of traditional oven baking. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving cozy leftovers, this slow cooker lasagna will warm your heart and belly every time.