Easy Skillet Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet lasagna gives you the best of both worlds: the bold flavors of classic lasagna and the simplicity of a one-pan dish. No need to boil noodles or layer ingredients in a baking dish. Everything comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it ideal for last-minute dinners. Plus, it’s customizable, family-friendly, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef or Italian sausage
onion
garlic
crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
tomato paste
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
water or beef broth
ricotta cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
olive oil
fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes or marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the broken lasagna noodles and water or broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and ensure noodles are mostly submerged.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
7. Remove from heat and dollop ricotta cheese over the top.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly. Cover and let the cheese melt for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta or use a blend of cheeses like provolone or fontina.
• Pasta Swap: Use any short pasta like penne or bowtie if you don’t have lasagna noodles.
• Add-ins: Mix in spinach, roasted red peppers, or olives for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, but you may need to slightly reduce the cooking time and liquid, as they soften faster than traditional noodles.

Can I make this recipe without ricotta cheese?

Absolutely. You can use cottage cheese or skip the ricotta entirely and just use mozzarella and Parmesan.

What’s the best skillet to use for this recipe?

A large, deep, nonstick or cast iron skillet with a lid works best for even cooking and easy cleanup.

Can I use marinara sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, marinara sauce works great and adds extra flavor with fewer ingredients.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?

Stir the dish occasionally while it simmers to keep the noodles from sticking together or to the bottom of the skillet.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet lasagna?

Yes, chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions to boost nutrition and flavor.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives to beef or sausage.

How can I make this dish creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese just before adding the cheese topping.

What can I serve with skillet lasagna?

A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Easy Skillet Lasagna brings all the comforting, cheesy satisfaction of traditional lasagna to your table in a fast, convenient way. With minimal prep, one pan, and customizable ingredients, it’s a perfect solution for busy nights without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this dish is sure to become a repeat favorite.

Easy Skillet Lasagna

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Easy Skillet Lasagna is a one-pan version of the classic Italian comfort food, made with broken lasagna noodles, savory meat sauce, and layers of gooey cheese—all cooked on the stovetop in under 40 minutes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups water or beef broth
• 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes (or marinara), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Add broken lasagna noodles and water or broth. Stir to ensure noodles are mostly submerged.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
7. Remove from heat. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted.
9. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

• Use no-boil noodles if preferred, but reduce liquid slightly and monitor doneness.
• Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent noodles from sticking.
• Add chopped spinach or sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition.
• Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg