Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe

Today, I will make Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna, a comforting and delectable dish that takes the hassle out of traditional lasagna preparation. By using a slow cooker, you can achieve perfectly cooked layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want a delicious meal with less fuss.

What is Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna?

Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna is a convenient take on the classic Italian dish, made by layering lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and cheese in a slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jiffy Corn Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet
• Pioneer Woman Beef Stew

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to prepare other dishes or relax while it cooks.
• Rich Flavor: Slow cooking enhances the flavors of the meat sauce and cheese.
• Convenient: Perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that kids and adults alike will love.
• Great for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or cheese.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound beef sausage
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (24 ounces each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 4 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and beaten eggs. Mix until well combined.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. Place a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce (you may need to break them to fit). Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the lasagna noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Add the remaining cheese: About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the lasagna. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.
7. Serve: Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna

• Garlic Bread: Adds a crunchy and flavorful side.
• Caesar Salad: Provides a fresh and crisp contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Complements the richness of the lasagna.
• Red Wine: Pairs perfectly with the savory flavors.
• Fruit Salad: Offers a refreshing and sweet end to the meal.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese make a big difference.
• Drain the Meat: Ensure the sauce isn’t too greasy.
• Layer Evenly: Helps the lasagna cook evenly.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent mushy noodles.
• Let it Rest: Allows the lasagna to set before serving.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna

• Vegetarian: Use vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms instead of meat.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella or different types of cheese.

Storing Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna: Best Practices

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Label: Clearly label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Cool Completely: Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna: Best Practices

• Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave Option: Heat individual servings in the microwave on medium power until warm.
• Cover for Moisture: Cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
• Stir Occasionally: Stir during reheating to ensure even warming.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 1050mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 28g

FAQs

How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery?

To prevent your lasagna from becoming watery, make sure to drain the meat well after browning. Also, avoid adding too much liquid to the sauce and use high-quality, thick tomato sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked lasagna noodles?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked lasagna noodles if you prefer. Just reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking the noodles.

How do I know when the lasagna is done?

The lasagna is done when the noodles are tender, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I add vegetables to this lasagna?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna is a comforting, flavorful dish that simplifies the traditional lasagna-making process. With its rich layers of meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles, it’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious casserole and make your mealtime special!

Other Yummy Recipes:

• Pioneer Woman Chow Chow
• Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna
• Pioneer Woman Beef Burgundy
• Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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