Dutch Oven Lasagna – Stove Top Lasagna
Introduction
If you love lasagna but hate the layering trays, oven juggling, and cleanup, say hello to Dutch Oven Lasagna—a stovetop wonder that brings all the comfort of the traditional dish without ever turning on your oven. This version combines savory meats, rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese all cooked in one pot. It’s hearty, deeply flavorful, and perfect for lazy Sundays or cozy weeknight dinners.
Why I Love This Recipe
- No oven needed – It’s all done on the stovetop!
- One pot means less cleanup
- Layers of rich flavor from Italian sausage, ground chuck, and red wine
- Perfect for feeding a crowd—or just making epic leftovers
It’s a rustic spin on a classic, and the results are nothing short of soul-soothing.
Ingredients
- 9 oz. package no-boil lasagna noodles
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 (15 oz) carton ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- 1 lb. ground chuck
- 1 lb. ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry or semi-dry red wine (sub water or broth if preferred)
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes (2–3 dashes)
- 32–48 oz. marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil, rough chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together ricotta, egg, and minced parsley. Set aside. - Cook the Meat
In your Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground chuck and Italian sausage together. Drain the meat, keeping 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot (or add olive oil if needed). Transfer meat to a large bowl. - Build the Sauce
In the same pot, sauté diced onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the red wine and let it deglaze the pot. Add red pepper flakes and marinara. Simmer for 5 minutes. Return the meat to the sauce and stir to combine. - Assemble in Layers (in Dutch Oven)
Keep the heat on low-medium and layer as follows:- 2 cups marinara meat sauce
- Lasagna noodles (break to fit)
- Marinara meat sauce
- Spoonfuls of ricotta mixture
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
Repeat this layering 3 more times, but only use ricotta for 3 total layers, ending with: - Noodles
- Marinara
- Mozzarella
- Finish with Parmesan
- Cook Covered
Switch heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes until noodles are cooked and lasagna is bubbling hot. - Optional Broil Finish
If you’re using an oven-safe Dutch oven, place under broiler for 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese. - Rest & Serve
Let lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.
Tips for Success
- Use no-boil noodles for best texture and time savings.
- Simmer gently—don’t let the bottom burn!
- Don’t skip resting—it helps the lasagna firm up for perfect slices.
- For more flavor, choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This hearty one-pot lasagna pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty garlic bread
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- A glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese
Or add variety to your table with:
- These Chicken Enchiladas – spice up the night
- This Instant Pot Lasagna – for comparison or busy nights
- Easy Turkey Wings – another cozy classic
- This Dorito Casserole – a fun twist for midweek meals
- One-Pan Breakfast Bake – perfect for a weekend brunch after lasagna night!
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in individual portions
- Reheat: Microwave or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this hearty dish, try these next:
- This Instant Pot Lasagna
- These Easy Turkey Wings
- This One-Pan Breakfast Bake
- These Chicken Enchiladas
- This Dorito Casserole
Final Thoughts
Dutch Oven Lasagna brings together rustic charm, cozy flavor, and stovetop convenience—all in one glorious pot. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or freezing meals for later, this version checks every box. The best part? No need to even turn on the oven.
Try it, love it, and tag us @chefmaniac if you make it—we’d love to see your layers of comfort!
Leave a Reply