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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the beloved lasagna. This Italian classic has been a staple in households for generations, celebrated for its layers of rich flavors and heartwarming ingredients. However, if you're looking to elevate your lasagna experience, the Smoky Hatch Chili Lasagna offers a delightful twist that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends. With the distinctive smokiness of hatch chilies, the richness of a variety of cheeses, and the hearty satisfaction of meat, this dish transforms a traditional favorite into something truly special.

Crockpot Hatch Chili Lasagna

Discover a delicious twist on a classic favorite with Smoky Hatch Chili Lasagna! This comforting dish layers tender noodles, savory meat, and creamy cheese enhanced by the unique flavor of hatch chilies. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, it’s a delightful blend of smokiness and warmth. Learn how to create this mouthwatering lasagna with easy-to-follow steps that will impress everyone at your table. Get ready to savor every bite!
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Ingredients
  

Lasagna Noodles: 9-12 sheets (oven-ready or regular)

Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 lb

Onion: 1 medium, diced

Garlic: 3 cloves, minced

Hatch Green Chilies: 2 cups, roasted and chopped (fresh or canned)

Tomato Sauce: 2 cups

Diced Tomatoes: 1 (15 oz) can, including juices

Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup

Cumin: 1 tsp

Chili Powder: 1 tsp

Oregano: 1 tsp

Salt and Pepper: to taste

Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until the meat is browned, stirring continuously. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.

    Mix in Chilies and Spices: After draining, return the skillet to the heat. Stir in the chopped hatch green chilies, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed and then remove the skillet from the heat.

      Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix vigorously until the cheese blend is smooth and homogenous.

        Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:

          - Begin with a thin layer of tomato sauce spread across the bottom of your crockpot.

            - Place 3-4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping them slightly if needed.

              - Add half of the meat and hatch chili mixture on top of the noodles, spreading evenly.

                - Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the meat, smoothing it out.

                  - Repeat this layering process with another layer of sauce, noodles, followed by the remaining meat, cheese mixture, and finish with a top layer of noodles and the remaining sauce.

                    Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top layer of sauce, ensuring an even distribution.

                      Cook in the Crockpot: Cover your crockpot securely with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The lasagna is done when the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                        Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes once cooking is complete before slicing. For an appealing presentation, garnish each portion with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 6-8 hours | 6-8 servings