This Skillet Lasagna is a fun, one-pan dish that layers pasta, cheese, and sauce all in one go! It’s bursting with flavor and super easy to whip up for dinner.
Honestly, who doesn’t love lasagna? Plus, the best part is that it’s ready in less time than it takes to watch a movie. Just throw it together, cover, and let it cook!
I love serving it with a side salad to balance things out. You’ll feel like a chef in your own kitchen without all the fuss! Enjoy every cheesy bite! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Sausage: Use either beef or Italian sausage for a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great too! You can even substitute with cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
Marinara Sauce: Any good-quality jarred marinara works well. You can also use homemade tomato sauce or even diced tomatoes if you’re in a pinch. Just add some Italian herbs for extra flavor!
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These are fantastic for saving time, but if you don’t have them, regular lasagna noodles can be used—just pre-cook them according to package instructions. You can also use pasta shapes like penne if needed.
Cheeses: Ricotta is lovely for creaminess, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a lighter option. Any shredded cheese can work in place of mozzarella, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, just keep the flavors in mind!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Noodles in Skillet Lasagna?
Cooking the noodles with precision is key to make sure they are tender, not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Always ensure the noodles are fully submerged in the sauce to cook evenly.
- Keep the heat low after adding noodles and cover the skillet to trap steam that helps soften them.
- Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and monitor their tenderness—usually around 15 minutes.
These techniques will result in perfectly cooked noodles that add to the harmony of flavors in your skillet lasagna!
How to Make Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 2 cups water or broth
- 8 ounces (about 3 cups) no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
For the Cheese Layers:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total—around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Heat a large cast-iron or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle in a little olive oil, just enough to coat the bottom. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
2. Cook the Meat:
Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off.
3. Stir in the Sauce and Noodles:
Pour in the marinara sauce and add the water or broth. Then sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer! Once simmering, stir in the broken lasagna noodles to ensure they are submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking together.
4. Add the Cheeses:
After the noodles are tender, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly across the top of the skillet mixture. Follow that with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet one more time and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the cheeses to melt and become bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Use a wooden spoon to scoop out the skillet lasagna straight from the pan while it’s warm. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This Skillet Lasagna is a comforting dish that brings all the joy of traditional lasagna without the hassle of layering. Enjoy your cheesy creation! 🍽️
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Skillet Lasagna?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free lasagna noodles or any other gluten-free pasta you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the specific pasta package instructions to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese is a great substitute! You can also blend some cream cheese with a little milk for a smooth texture. Just mix it with some herbs to keep the flavor balanced.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up until adding the cheese. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just add the cheeses and follow the cooking instructions. You might need to adjust cooking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Skillet Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
