Lasagna. Just the word conjures images of bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta. But it also often brings to mind hours in the kitchen, endless layering, and a mountain of dishes. What if I told you there’s a way to get all that classic lasagna comfort with a fraction of the effort and only one pan to clean? Enter Easy Skillet Lasagna, your new best friend for busy weeknights and sudden cravings.
This recipe takes all the beloved flavors of traditional lasagna and translates them into a quick, fuss-free, stovetop masterpiece. No boiling noodles, no intricate layering, just pure, unadulterated cheesy, meaty, saucy goodness, ready in about 30 minutes. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone who loves Italian food but doesn’t always have the time for a big production.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m all about maximizing flavor with minimal fuss, and this skillet lasagna perfectly embodies that philosophy. What makes me absolutely adore this recipe is its sheer simplicity and speed. It’s perfect for those evenings when you get home and need dinner on the table fast, but still want something hearty and satisfying. The way the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all those rich flavors, is pure genius. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze, which, let’s be honest, is half the battle on a busy weeknight. It’s comfort food without the commitment, and that’s a win in my book every single time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this weeknight magic:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water (or beef broth for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Swaps and Notes
- Meat: Ground beef is classic, but Italian sausage (mild or hot) adds a fantastic depth of flavor. You could even use ground turkey or a plant-based crumble for a lighter version.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a nice base, but diced tomatoes can be used for a chunkier sauce. Adjust the amount of water as needed if using different tomato products.
- Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles work best. Look for the “oven-ready” or “no-boil” kind if you want, but even regular dry noodles will cook in the sauce. Just make sure they are broken into smaller pieces so they can fully submerge.
- Cheese: The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella is traditional. You can swap some Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use a blend of Italian cheeses. A touch of cream cheese or mascarpone mixed into the ricotta can make it even creamier.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are always a great addition if you have them on hand. Stir in some fresh chopped basil or parsley at the end.
- Vegetables: Feel free to sauté some diced bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onion for added nutrition and flavor.
Steps for the Recipe
Ready to whip up some easy lasagna? Let’s go!
- Brown the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Aromatics and Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water (or broth). Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Add Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into roughly 2-inch pieces and carefully stir them into the simmering sauce, making sure they are mostly submerged.
- Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If the sauce becomes too thick before the noodles are tender, add a splash more water or broth.
- Cheese Layer: While the noodles are cooking, in a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the noodles are cooked, dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top of the lasagna. Sprinkle evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use a Large Skillet: A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven (at least 10-12 inches in diameter with high sides) is crucial to ensure all ingredients fit and cook properly.
- Submerge Noodles: Make sure the broken lasagna noodles are as submerged as possible in the sauce. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
- Stir Occasionally: Stirring prevents the noodles from sticking together and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust Liquid: Different brands of noodles and tomatoes can affect liquid absorption. If the sauce seems too dry, add a splash more water or broth. If it’s too soupy after the noodles are cooked, uncover and simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time! It allows the sauce to set and the cheese to firm up slightly, making for cleaner serving.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Easy Skillet Lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a refreshing beverage pairing, a crisp red wine like a Chianti or a non-alcoholic This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days would be perfect.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover skillet lasagna stores wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or gently reheat the entire skillet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you’re a fan of quick, comforting, and delicious meals like this skillet lasagna, be sure to explore some of these other fantastic recipes by Jason Griffith:
- For another super-fast lasagna fix, try This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast.
- If you love classic Italian flavors, our Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce is a must-try.
- Looking for another great one-pan dinner? This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit is fantastic.
- And for a quick and savory skillet meal with a Southern twist, check out This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Skillet Lasagna is a testament to the fact that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy truly satisfying, homemade comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly convenient. It’s perfect for busy families, singles, or anyone who just wants to ditch the fuss without sacrificing flavor.
I’d love to hear how this one-pan wonder simplifies your weeknights! Share your experience or any delicious additions you made in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more quick and tasty recipes!
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