Why the Crockpot Lamb Stew Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When you think about hearty comfort food, the Crockpot Lamb Stew stands out as one of the best options. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, which is a game-changer for busy days.
I love how I can toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish that warms me from the inside out.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it based on what you have on hand. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delightful stew in your life.
Ingredients of Crockpot Lamb Stew
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, the Creamy Spinach Lamb Stew is a top contender. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers away in the slow cooker.
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that practically cooks itself? With just a handful of ingredients, this stew is packed with flavor and comfort, making it perfect for chilly evenings when you want to curl up on the couch with a bowl and a good book.
But what exactly do you need to make this delightful dish? Let’s break it down.
Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Lamb Stew:
- 1 (15 ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 3/4 lb lean ground beef (at least 90% lean)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (you can totally use jarred if you’re feeling lazy)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or 1/2 teaspoon mixed Italian herbs
- 1 (26 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 4-6 dry lasagna noodles
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients. You might be wondering about the cheeses — I mean, who wouldn’t want to throw in a bit of gooey mozzarella? It adds that creamy texture we all crave.
And the ricotta? It’s like the fluffy cloud on top of your stew. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you could swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based protein.
And don’t forget about the spinach! It’s not just for garnish; it’s a nutritional powerhouse that adds a pop of color and a fresh taste. Feel free to get creative with your herbs, too — a little basil or thyme could make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria.
Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Lamb Stew
Alright, let’s dive right into making this Creamy Spinach Lamb Stew. First things first, grab your 3/4 lb of lean ground beef. You want to cook that in a pan over medium-high heat. Oh, and don’t forget to toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano (or mixed Italian herbs, if that’s what you have).
As that sizzles away, the aroma will start to fill your kitchen, which is always a good sign. Cook it until the beef is no longer pink, and then drain the fat. This is essential — no one wants a greasy stew.
While your beef is browning, let’s get that creamy mixture going. In a bowl, combine 1 (15 ounce) container of part-skim ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Season it with 1/4 teaspoon each of kosher salt and pepper, then fold in 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh baby spinach.
This creamy goodness is going to add a fantastic texture and flavor to your stew.
Now, it’s time to layer everything in the crockpot. Start with 1/2 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom. Then, mix half of your cooked ground beef into that. Next, lay down your dry lasagna noodles, breaking them as needed to fit.
On top of that, add 3/4 cup of marinara sauce, followed by 1/3 of your ricotta mixture. Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients: noodles, marinara, ricotta, and ground beef until everything is used up.
Finish it off with a final layer of noodles and the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top for that melty goodness.
Now, close the lid and let it cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Seriously, the hardest part is waiting. But trust me, the wait is worth it — your kitchen is going to smell amazing, and you’ll be in for a cozy, comforting meal.
Crockpot Lamb Stew Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
Now that we’ve layered our delicious creamy spinach lamb stew in the crockpot, let’s explore some fantastic substitutions and variations to make it more suitable for low-carb diets.
Instead of lasagna noodles, I love using zucchini or eggplant slices for a veggie-packed base.
Swap out the ground beef for lean ground lamb for a richer flavor.
If you’re looking to cut dairy, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for that savory taste.
For extra fiber, toss in some mushrooms or cauliflower.
These tweaks keep the stew hearty while keeping those carbs in check—perfect for a low-carb lifestyle!
What to Serve with Crockpot Lamb Stew
While enjoying a warm bowl of creamy spinach lamb stew, I often think about the perfect accompaniments to elevate the meal.
Fresh crusty bread is a must—it’s great for soaking up that delicious sauce. A crisp green salad adds a revitalizing contrast, and I love tossing in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch.
For a cozy touch, consider serving a side of roasted vegetables; they complement the flavors beautifully. If I’m in the mood for something hearty, creamy mashed potatoes never disappoint.
Each of these sides enhances the stew experience and makes my meal truly satisfying!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To enjoy a delicious creamy spinach lamb stew while keeping calories in check, I recommend making a few simple swaps.
First, try using low-fat ricotta instead of the regular kind; it still gives you that creamy texture without the extra calories. You can also reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese or opt for a lower-fat version.
Instead of ground beef, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein choice.
Finally, adding more spinach not only boosts the nutrient content but also helps fill you up.
These swaps can make a tasty stew that’s easier on your waistline!