Best Slow Cooker Lasagna (Lightened-Up & Still Delicious!)
If you’ve ever wished lasagna could cook itself while you go live your life, here’s your moment. This slow cooker version gives you all the cozy, saucy, cheesy goodness without the heavy extras.
I’ve lightened it up with leaner protein, lower-sodium ingredients, and just the right amount of dairy so it’s kinder to your system but still tastes like a weekend splurge.
It’s easy, it’s hearty, it feeds a crowd, and honestly? It will absolutely become one of those recipes people ask you to “make again next time.”
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs ground turkey or chicken breast
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1 onion (optional; use sparingly or swap for leeks for a gentler flavor)
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 tbsp minced garlic (optional)
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1 tbsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 can (14.5 oz) low-sodium diced tomatoes, drained
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2 jars (15 oz each) low-sodium or no-salt-added spaghetti sauce (homemade works too!)
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Whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles (as needed)
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8 oz part-skim ricotta cheese
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1 egg
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8 oz part-skim shredded mozzarella
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Up to 8 oz grated Parmesan (use less for an even lighter version)
Instructions
1. Prep the Ricotta Layer
In a small bowl, stir together the ricotta and egg until smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat & Veggies
In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, cook the turkey/chicken with the onion (if using), bell pepper, and garlic over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain if needed.
3. Season Everything Up
Add Italian seasoning, oregano, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to wake up the herbs.
4. Build the Sauce
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and spaghetti sauce. Allow it to simmer for 20 minutes so the flavors come together. Taste and adjust as needed.
5. Assemble the Lasagna
Add a thin layer of sauce to the bottom of your slow cooker.
Layer in this order (repeat 3 times):
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Lasagna noodles (break to fit)
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Meat sauce
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Ricotta mixture
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Mozzarella + Parmesan
End with cheese on top.
6. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
7. Let It Rest
Turn off the cooker and let the lasagna sit for 15–20 minutes so it slices beautifully.
Notes
This recipe swaps out excess fat, sodium, and dairy while keeping all the flavor. As always, check with a healthcare provider if you’re making dietary adjustments for specific health needs.
Tried and tested by LivingWithDana.com
P.S. If your slow cooker has seen better days, Kohl’s usually has great deals on new ones!
