Slow Cooker Lasagna
Experience the mouthwatering delight of our Slow Cooker Lasagna, a signature recipe from Kelvin's Kitchen. This comforting dish is made with layers of flavorful ingredients and cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Follow this step-by-step guide for a bold and robust lasagna that will surely become a family favorite.
Layered Origins:
The history of lasagna is a journey through time, evolving from an ancient Greek dish called lagano. Over the centuries, it transformed into the delightful layered masterpiece we know today. The culinary plot twist? Tomatoes, a key ingredient, were fashionably late to their Italian debut, arriving in the 16th century.
Global Lasagna Love:
Lasagna's popularity knows no bounds. As Italian explorers set sail for the United States, they brought this layered extravaganza with them, creating a fusion of flavors that instantly captivated the American palate. From England's seafood lasagna to Argentina's spinach and ricotta interpretation, lasagna has become a global sensation, adapting to diverse tastes worldwide.
FAQs
1. **Can I use a different type of meat in this lasagna recipe?**
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests Italian ground sausage and lean ground beef, feel free to experiment with your favorite meats like ground turkey or a mix of different meats.
2. **Is there a substitute for fennel seeds if I don't have them?**
- If you don't have fennel seeds, you can omit them or replace them with a pinch of ground fennel for a similar flavor.
3. **Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?**
- Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Adjust the quantity based on taste, and consider peeling and seeding them before adding to the sauce.
4. **How crucial is the chicken stock in the recipe?**
- The chicken stock adds depth to the flavor, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with vegetable stock or even water.
5. **Can I make this lasagna recipe without a slow cooker?**
- Certainly! You can adapt the recipe for the oven. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45-60 minutes.
6. **Is it necessary to let the lasagna sit in the slow cooker after cooking?**
- Allowing the lasagna to rest for 30 minutes helps it set and makes it easier to serve, but you can serve it immediately if you can't wait!
7. **Can I freeze leftovers?**
- Yes, you can freeze portions of the lasagna for later. Ensure proper packaging to maintain freshness.
8. **What side dishes pair well with this lasagna?**
- A crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices to complement the flavors of the lasagna.
9. **Can I customize the cheese mixture?**
- Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite cheeses or adjust the quantities based on your preferences.
10. **How long does it take to prep this lasagna recipe?**
- The preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and then it slow cooks for 4 hours. It's a convenient recipe, perfect for a delicious home-cooked meal.
Remember, cooking is an art, so don't hesitate to make the recipe your own by adding personal touches and variations!
Make it
Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian ground sausage
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium-sized onion, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 32 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Lasagna noodles (1 box)
- Deli-sliced low-moisture mozzarella
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
- Mozzarella cheese, for the top layer
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add Italian ground sausage and lean ground beef, breaking up the meat and sautéing until brown.
3. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic, dried oregano, fennel seeds, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir to wake up the spices.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, granulated sugar, and stir until well incorporated.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add chicken stock, fresh basil, and fresh parsley. Set the sauce aside.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, fresh parsley, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
8. Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
9. Spread a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker.
10. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping and breaking them as needed.
11. Spread a third of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
12. Repeat the layering process: sauce, meat, Parmesan cheese, deli-sliced mozzarella, noodles, and cheese mixture.
13. Ensure you have enough meat sauce for the top layer. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and top it off with mozzarella cheese.
14. Cover and slow cook for 4 hours on low.
15. Turn off the slow cooker and let it sit for 30 minutes before serving.
16. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
17. Serve and savor the deliciousness of your Slow Cooker Lasagna.
Enjoy this delectable creation that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table.
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