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As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to comfort the soul. The arrival of autumn brings a sense of coziness and the perfect opportunity to indulge in rich, flavorful dishes that embody the season. One such dish is Cozy Autumn Crockpot Lasagna, a delightful combination of savory meats, aromatic herbs, and seasonal vegetables. This lasagna is not only a feast for the palate but also a perfect way to gather family and friends around the table for a fulfilling meal that evokes feelings of warmth and togetherness.

Fall Crockpot Lasagna

Warm up this fall with a Cozy Autumn Crockpot Lasagna that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines savory meats, fresh vegetables, and rich cheeses, all slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. Enjoy the convenience of preparing this hearty dish with ease, letting the flavors meld beautifully throughout the day. Gather your loved ones and indulge in a comforting meal that captures the essence of autumn, making every bite a delightful celebration of the season.

Ingredients
  

12-15 oven-ready lasagna noodles

1 lb ground turkey or beef

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen; if frozen, thaw and drain)

1 medium zucchini, diced

2 cups mushrooms, sliced

28 oz can crushed tomatoes

15 oz ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions
 

Sauté the Vegetables and Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for approximately 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the ground turkey or beef, breaking it up with a spatula and cooking until browned. If there is excess fat, drain it off carefully.

    Add Vegetables: Next, add the diced zucchini and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the zucchini becomes tender. If using fresh spinach, add it at this stage and stir until it wilts. Season the mixture with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

      Prepare the Sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and mix thoroughly with the meat and vegetable mixture. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

        Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot: Begin layering in the crockpot by spreading a thin layer of the meat and vegetable sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top, breaking them as needed to fit within the crockpot.

          Add Cheese Layers: Spoon half of the ricotta cheese over the noodle layer. Next, sprinkle one-third of both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ricotta. Repeat the layering process: sauce, noodles, ricotta, and cheeses until all ingredients are utilized. Conclude with a final layer of sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

            Cook the Lasagna: Secure the lid on the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The lasagna is ready when the noodles are tender and the cheese has melted into a bubbly golden crust.

              Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, turn off the crockpot and let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.

                Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours | Servings: 8-10

                  Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve the lasagna in individual portions on warm plates, garnished with a sprinkle of additional cheese and a fresh herb leaf on top. Pair with a side salad and rustic bread for a complete autumn meal. Enjoy!