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Slow Cooker 12 Layer Lasagna

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This Slow Cooker 12 Layer Lasagna is an easy, cheesy family favorite. Layers of rich turkey sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melty mozzarella cook right in your crock pot — no boiling noodles required.

If you love traditional lasagna but don’t love the extra steps, this slow cooker version is about to change your dinner routine. There’s no need to pre-cook noodles or babysit the oven. Everything layers beautifully in the crock pot and slowly transforms into a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece.

It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd, simple enough for a weeknight, and perfect for leftovers all week long.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds dark meat ground turkey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 (6-ounce) cans tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 16 ounces (about 45 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 pound dried lasagna noodles, uncooked

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large sauce pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart into bite-sized pieces until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and drain excess liquid.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pot. Sauté the diced onion for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Return the turkey to the pot and stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian herbs, and salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3–5 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Stir in the cottage cheese and parmesan until well combined.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Lightly oil or spray your slow cooker. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.

Add a single layer of uncooked lasagna noodles (break to fit and slightly overlap if needed). Spread 1/3 of the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle 1/3 of the mozzarella on top.

Repeat layers two more times, ending with mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until noodles are tender.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Turn off the slow cooker and remove the lid. Let the lasagna rest for 20 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and hold its shape.

Notes

  • Crock Pot Size: This recipe is written for a 6.5-quart slow cooker. If using a smaller one, reduce the amount per layer to fit.

  • Drain Tomatoes Well: Properly draining prevents a watery sauce.

  • Add Vegetables: Layer in sautéed spinach, zucchini slices, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

  • Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease the crock before assembling.

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate. You can also fully assemble the lasagna in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. If cooking from cold, add about 30 extra minutes to the cook time.

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One Potato is a community and newsletter written by real people who are parents, having real conversations about our families, cooking traditions, and cultures. We are passionate about raising healthy and happy kids while navigating the challenges of picky eaters, dietary restrictions, busy schedules, and daily life.