Hearty Triple-Layer Zucchini and Spinach Crock Pot Lasagna
Indulge in the comforting layers of our Hearty Triple-Layer Zucchini and Spinach Crock Pot Lasagna! This decadent dish combines lean ground beef with perfectly sautéed onions and your choice of tender zucchini or fresh spinach, ensuring a delightful and nutritious meal for the whole family. Seasoned with aromatic herbs and simmered to perfection in a richly flavored sauce, each layer is packed with flavor and cheesy goodness. The addition of creamy ricotta and mozzarella creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience, making this lasagna a family favorite. Best of all, it's straightforward to prepare, and the leftovers are just as comforting the next day. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this lasagna proves that healthy can be delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb (browned)
small onion
1 (finely chopped)
medium zucchini
2 (sliced thinly into 1/4-inch pieces or approximately 1-2 cups chopped spinach)
garlic cloves
2 (crushed and minced)
extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
anise seed
1/8 teaspoon (crushed (optional))
sliced mushrooms
1 (4 ounce) can ((optional))
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (snipped (optional))
spaghetti sauce
1 (26-28 ounce) jar (any flavor)
dry red wine
1/4 cup
lasagna noodles
11-12 (uncooked)
part-skim ricotta cheese
1 lb
egg
1 (beaten)
parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 cups (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef along with the chopped onions, zucchini (or spinach), and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2
Add the oregano, basil, ground black pepper, crushed anise seeds (if using), sliced mushrooms, and fresh parsley to the skillet. Pour in the spaghetti sauce and dry red wine. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
3
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten egg, mixing until smooth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and blend well until evenly incorporated.
4
Prepare your crock pot by greasing the bottom and sides with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
5
Start layering the lasagna: Spread about 1/4 of the meat sauce mixture on the bottom of the crock pot. Place a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking them as needed to fit. Next, add 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture and top with 1/4 of the mozzarella cheese.
6
Repeat these layers two more times: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Finish with the remaining meat sauce on top, then sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese to create a delicious, cheesy crust.
7
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or alternatively on high for 4 hours followed by 30 minutes on low, until the noodles are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hearty Triple-Layer Zucchini and Spinach Crock Pot Lasagna?
It is a comforting, slow-cooked meal featuring lean ground beef, nutritious zucchini or spinach, and three layers of cheesy goodness.
Can I use spinach instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute the zucchini with approximately 1 to 2 cups of fresh chopped spinach.
Do I need to boil the lasagna noodles before putting them in the crock pot?
No, the lasagna noodles should be added to the crock pot uncooked as they will cook in the sauce.
How long does this lasagna take to cook on low?
The lasagna should cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the noodles are tender.
Is there a faster cooking option?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 4 hours followed by an additional 30 minutes on low.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of lean ground beef.
How many layers are in this lasagna?
This recipe features a triple-layer structure, repeating the sauce, noodle, and cheese layers three times.
What cheeses are included in the recipe?
The recipe uses part-skim ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
Is the anise seed mandatory?
No, the crushed anise seed is an optional ingredient to enhance flavor.
What kind of sauce should I use?
You can use one 26 to 28 ounce jar of any flavor of spaghetti sauce.
Does the recipe include wine?
Yes, it includes 1/4 cup of dry red wine to add depth to the sauce.
Why is an egg added to the ricotta cheese?
The beaten egg is mixed with the ricotta to help bind the cheese layers together as they cook.
How many lasagna noodles do I need?
You will need between 11 and 12 uncooked lasagna noodles.
Should I grease the crock pot?
Yes, grease the bottom and sides with cooking spray or butter to prevent the lasagna from sticking.
Are the mushrooms fresh or canned?
The recipe suggests using one 4-ounce can of sliced mushrooms, though they are optional.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The sauce is seasoned with dried oregano leaves, dried basil leaves, and optional fresh snipped parsley.
How should I prepare the zucchini?
The zucchini should be sliced thinly into 1/4-inch pieces or chopped if using spinach instead.
What is the first step in making this lasagna?
The first step is browning the ground beef with onions, vegetables, and garlic in a large skillet.
How do I fit the noodles into the slow cooker?
You can break the uncooked noodles as needed to fit the shape and size of your crock pot.
What is the very last layer of the lasagna?
The lasagna is finished with a final layer of meat sauce topped with extra parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese.
How much mozzarella cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 2 cups of shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the description notes that leftovers are just as comforting and delicious the next day.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves that should be crushed and minced.
What type of oil should I use for sautéing?
The recipe recommends 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
How do I know when the lasagna is finished?
It is done when the noodles are tender and the cheese on top is bubbly.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
While the recipe specifies lean ground beef, ground turkey is a common and healthy substitute.
Is this a good dish for busy weeknights?
Yes, because it is straightforward to prepare and cooks in a slow cooker, it is perfect for busy schedules.
How much parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese inside the ricotta mixture plus a little extra for the top.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
Key tags include lasagna, crock pot, one dish meal, comfort food, and family-friendly.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, you can easily add more zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to make the dish even heartier.