Description
This Quick and Easy Skillet Lasagna is a delicious, comforting one-pan meal that combines classic lasagna flavors with the convenience of stovetop cooking. Ground beef or Italian sausage is simmered with marinara sauce, broken lasagna noodles, and Italian seasonings, then topped with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups water
Dry and Seasonings
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Meat: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, pressing them gently into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender.
- Add Cheeses and Melt: Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a fresh finish, and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage.
- Add spinach or mushrooms during the sauté step for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- This one-pan skillet meal is great for quick weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.
