Introduction
Lasagna has always been a beloved comfort food. Traditionally baked in layers of noodles, sauce, cheese, and savory meats, it’s a dish that can take hours of preparation. However, with the Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of a classic lasagna without the hassle and wait. This recipe is not only simple and quick, but it’s also made in one skillet, ensuring minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook looking for a shortcut, this skillet lasagna will meet all your needs. Let’s dive into this easy skillet lasagna recipe and explore everything it has to offer.
What is Easy Skillet Lasagna?
Skillet lasagna is a quicker, more convenient version of the traditional oven-baked lasagna. Instead of layering the noodles, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish, you prepare everything in a large skillet or Dutch oven. By breaking the noodles into smaller pieces and cooking them directly in the sauce, you eliminate the need for boiling pasta separately. It’s a one-pan meal that saves you time and effort, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
The Origin of Skillet Lasagna
Skillet lasagna is a modern twist on the classic Italian-American dish. While lasagna itself has roots in ancient Italy, the concept of skillet lasagna is a relatively recent invention. This one-pan version emerged as cooks sought ways to streamline the lasagna-making process, reducing preparation time and cleanup without sacrificing flavor. The skillet lasagna combines all the ingredients of traditional lasagna in a simplified, more accessible way, often using ground beef or sausage, marinara sauce, cheese, and noodles.
Though it’s not strictly traditional, skillet lasagna has quickly become a popular choice for busy home cooks who still want the rich, hearty flavors of classic lasagna without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Easy Skillet Lasagna
Here’s what you need to make this easy skillet lasagna recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
This will form the base of the lasagna’s savory flavor. You can also opt for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. - 1 medium onion, diced
Onion adds depth to the sauce and a touch of sweetness when cooked. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is an essential aromatic that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. - 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
The marinara sauce is the foundation of the lasagna’s rich, tomato-based sauce. - 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Adding diced tomatoes provides texture and a tangy contrast to the smooth marinara sauce. - 2 cups water or beef broth
The liquid helps to cook the noodles and thins the sauce to the perfect consistency. - 12 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
Break the noodles into smaller pieces to allow them to cook more quickly and evenly in the skillet. - 1 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta adds creaminess and richness to the lasagna. It’s a must-have for authentic lasagna flavor. - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella provides that signature melty, cheesy goodness we all love in lasagna. - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. - 2 tbsp fresh basil (or 1 tbsp dried)
Fresh basil provides a burst of herbaceous flavor, perfect for garnishing the dish before serving. - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
This herb blend gives the dish a well-rounded, aromatic flavor. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is key to balance and bring all the flavors together. - 2 tbsp olive oil
Olive oil is used to cook the meat and vegetables, adding a subtle richness to the dish.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s go through the preparation process step by step:
Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. You want the meat to brown and release its juices. This will give your lasagna a hearty, meaty flavor.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Once the meat is browned, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Liquid
Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and water or beef broth. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This will allow all the flavors to meld together and create a savory base for your lasagna.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Once the sauce has come to a simmer, add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir them in to ensure they’re well submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
After the noodles are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the top of the lasagna. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Alternatively, for a crispy, golden top, you can place the skillet under a broiler for 2-3 minutes. The result will be a beautifully melted, bubbling layer of cheese on top of the lasagna.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese has melted, sprinkle the lasagna with fresh basil and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle, and you’ll avoid burning your mouth with hot cheese.
Variations of Skillet Lasagna
While this easy skillet lasagna recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to customize it to your tastes:
- Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna:
Replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat. - Skillet Lasagna with a White Sauce:
Instead of using marinara sauce, make a white sauce by combining ricotta, cream, and Parmesan cheese. This gives the dish a creamy, rich texture. - Spicy Skillet Lasagna:
Add some red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce for an extra kick. - Gluten-Free Skillet Lasagna:
Substitute traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. - Skillet Lasagna with Sausage and Bacon:
For a heartier version, add crumbled sausage and crispy bacon along with the ground beef for a more indulgent meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make skillet lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the skillet lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
2. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Just be sure to add a little extra liquid to ensure the noodles cook properly.
3. Can I freeze skillet lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze the lasagna after cooking it. Let it cool completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight and warm it in the oven.
4. How can I make skillet lasagna spicier?
To spice up your lasagna, try adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use spicy Italian sausage in place of regular sausage.
Conclusion: Easy Skillet Lasagna
The easy skillet lasagna recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna without the long preparation and baking time. With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and the same satisfying taste, this skillet lasagna is sure to become a regular dish in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to save time or just want a comforting meal that doesn’t require a lot of effort, this recipe will deliver. So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a hearty, homemade lasagna tonight!
Print
Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe: A Delicious One-Pan Wonder
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Skillet lasagna is a quicker, more convenient version of the traditional oven-baked lasagna. Instead of layering the noodles, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish, you prepare everything in a large skillet or Dutch oven. By breaking the noodles into smaller pieces and cooking them directly in the sauce, you eliminate the need for boiling pasta separately. It’s a one-pan meal that saves you time and effort, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 12 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add aromatics: Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add sauce and liquid: Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, water/broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, stirring to submerge them in the sauce. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
- Add cheese: Remove from heat. Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Melt cheese: Cover the skillet and let sit for 5 minutes to allow cheese to melt, or place under broiler for 2-3 minutes for a golden top.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This one-pan skillet lasagna gives you all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the extra effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite veggies, different cheeses, or even ground turkey instead of beef
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: One-Pan Lasagna, Quick Skillet Lasagna, Easy Lasagna Recipe, Skillet Lasagna
