Carrie Underwood’s Slow Cooker Lasagna: A Delicious and Easy Recipe Review
Carrie Underwood, the country music superstar, is not only known for her incredible voice but also for her passion for healthy eating and home cooking. One of her most talked-about recipes is her slow cooker lasagna, a hearty and comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. This article provides a detailed review of Carrie Underwood’s slow cooker lasagna recipe, including step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations, so you can enjoy this delicious meal in your own home.
Why Slow Cooker Lasagna?
Slow cooker lasagna is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Here’s why:
* **Convenience:** Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. No need to babysit the oven or worry about burning the dish.
* **Flavor:** The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer, more complex taste.
* **Effortless Cooking:** It minimizes hands-on time, leaving you free to focus on other tasks.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
* **Healthier Option:** Often, slow cooker recipes encourage using leaner meats and more vegetables, promoting a healthier diet.
The Original Carrie Underwood Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe: Overview
While Carrie Underwood hasn’t published an ‘official’ recipe with exact measurements, information has been gathered from various sources, including interviews and shared insights from those who have recreated the dish based on her descriptions. This means the recipe below is inspired by Carrie Underwood and represents a compilation of what is known about her preferences for this lasagna. It emphasizes lean protein, lots of veggies, and a focus on making a healthier, yet delicious, lasagna.
Before diving into the adapted recipe, it is worth noting that most recipes inspired by her slow cooker lasagna suggest that the most important step is the layering of ingredients and not overfilling the slow cooker. Additionally, browning the ground meat (typically lean ground turkey or beef) before layering helps with flavor and texture.
Adapted Carrie Underwood Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe
This recipe is adapted, inspired by various interpretations of Carrie Underwood’s approach to slow cooker lasagna.
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 4-6 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high
**Serves:** 6-8
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound lean ground turkey or beef
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese (part-skim is a healthier option)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked (oven-ready or regular, broken into pieces if needed)
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim for a lighter option)
* Optional vegetables: 1 cup chopped spinach, 1 cup sliced mushrooms, 1/2 cup grated carrots, 1/2 cup zucchini
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
* Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
* Mixing bowl
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:**
* In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey or beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
* Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
* If using optional vegetables, add them to the sauce during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
**2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:**
* In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
**3. Layer the Lasagna in the Slow Cooker:**
* Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker with cooking spray.
* Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
* Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking them into pieces as needed to fit. Don’t overlap the noodles too much; you want to ensure even cooking. If using regular lasagna noodles (not oven-ready), you might consider parboiling them for a few minutes to soften them slightly, which will help them cook more evenly in the slow cooker. However, using oven-ready noodles is the simpler option.
* Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
* Sprinkle 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
* Repeat layers: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
* Top with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
**4. Slow Cook the Lasagna:**
* Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
**5. Rest and Serve:**
* Once the lasagna is cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the lasagna to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
* Carefully remove the lasagna from the slow cooker using a large spoon or spatula. Cut into squares and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Lasagna
* **Don’t Overfill:** Avoid overfilling the slow cooker, as this can lead to uneven cooking and a messy lasagna. Leave about an inch of space at the top.
* **Noodle Placement:** Ensure the noodles are covered with sauce to prevent them from drying out. Breaking the noodles into smaller pieces can help them fit more evenly.
* **Prevent Sticking:** Lightly greasing the bottom of the slow cooker prevents the lasagna from sticking.
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the lasagna. If the noodles are tender, it’s ready.
* **Add Moisture:** If the lasagna looks dry during cooking, add a little bit of water or broth to the slow cooker to increase moisture.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and good-quality cheese, will enhance the flavor of the lasagna.
* **Layering is Key:** Proper layering ensures that each component cooks evenly and that the flavors meld together beautifully.
* **Lean Protein Options:** Using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef reduces the fat content, making it a healthier option.
* **Vegetable Variations:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the meat sauce, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
Variations and Adaptations
* **Vegetarian Lasagna:** Substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a mixture of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
* **Chicken Lasagna:** Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground meat.
* **Spicy Lasagna:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
* **White Sauce Lasagna:** Replace the ricotta cheese mixture with a homemade or store-bought white sauce (béchamel) for a richer, creamier lasagna.
* **Gluten-Free Lasagna:** Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
* **Individual Lasagna Cups:** For a fun twist, layer the ingredients in muffin tins and bake in the oven for individual lasagna cups.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Please note that the following are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Protein: 25-35 grams
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
These values assume lean ground meat, part-skim cheeses, and a moderate portion size.
Serving Suggestions
* Serve the slow cooker lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
* Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine.
* Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
* Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Carrie Underwood’s approach, which emphasizes a lighter, healthier version of classic comfort food, is what makes this recipe so appealing. By using lean protein, incorporating plenty of vegetables, and choosing reduced-fat cheeses, the recipe offers a guilt-free way to enjoy lasagna. The slow cooker method further simplifies the cooking process, making it accessible for even the busiest individuals. The versatility to adapt and add personal touches ensures this lasagna can become a family favorite.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with a simple recipe like slow cooker lasagna, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
* **Dry Noodles:** Ensure the noodles are completely covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out during cooking. Adding a bit of extra liquid (water or broth) can also help.
* **Overcooked Lasagna:** Keep a close eye on the lasagna, especially when cooking on high. Overcooking can result in mushy noodles. Reduce the cooking time if necessary.
* **Watery Lasagna:** To prevent a watery lasagna, make sure to drain excess liquid from the meat after browning it. Also, avoid adding too many watery vegetables.
* **Uneven Cooking:** Proper layering and even distribution of ingredients are crucial for even cooking. Ensure the noodles are not overlapping too much and that the sauce is spread evenly.
* **Sticking to the Slow Cooker:** Always grease the bottom of the slow cooker before layering the ingredients to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
Carrie Underwood’s slow cooker lasagna is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a classic comfort food dish. With its emphasis on healthier ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that anyone can master. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this slow cooker lasagna is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!
By following these steps and tips, you can create a flavorful and satisfying slow cooker lasagna that’s both delicious and easy to make. Enjoy!
This adapted recipe allows for a healthier approach to this popular dish, inspired by Carrie Underwood’s philosophy on nutrition and balanced eating. Feel free to experiment with vegetables and seasoning to customize the recipe to your personal taste!