Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe: One-Pan Comfort in Under an Hour
Time to Prep:
15 minutes
Time to Cook:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
4-6 servings
Yield:
1 skillet (approximately 10-inch size)
Introduction
Skillet Lasagna is the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re craving classic lasagna but don’t have the time or energy for layers of pasta. This one-pan lasagna delivers all the comforting flavors of a traditional lasagna noodle recipe — hearty meat sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese — but comes together in just 45 minutes. Even better, you can skip boiling the pasta and use ready-to-bake lasagna noodles, which cook directly in the sauce. No extra dishes and no hassle make this the best shortcut for busy nights.
Ingredients for Skillet Lasagna
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups water or broth
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
How to Make Skillet Lasagna (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the base flavors of your lasagna noodle recipe.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups of marinara or tomato sauce, and stir everything to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Layer in the Noodles
Break 8 oz of ready-to-bake lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them directly to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the sauce. Pour in 1 ½ cups of water or broth to help the noodles cook. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the noodles are fully cooked, dollop 1 cup of ricotta cheese over the lasagna. Then sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan evenly across the top. Cover again for 3-5 minutes, letting the cheeses melt into a bubbly, golden topping.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve your skillet lasagna straight from the pan, enjoying the gooey cheese and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles.
Skillet Lasagna Tips and Variations:
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite plant-based ground “meat.”
- Use Whole-Wheat Noodles: For a healthier twist, opt for whole-wheat lasagna noodles.
- Add Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach when you sauté the onions for added nutrients and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Skillet Lasagna:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes with minimal prep.
- Less Cleanup: One skillet means fewer dishes to wash.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- No Boiling Required: The ready-to-bake lasagna noodles save time and effort, cooking directly in the sauce.
Conclusion
This Skillet Lasagna is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you need comfort food fast. With only one pan, simple ingredients, and ready-to-bake lasagna noodles, you’ll have a hearty, cheesy lasagna on the table in no time. Be sure to save this easy lasagna noodle recipe for when you need a quick, flavorful dinner idea!