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If you’ve ever dreamed of having the rich, comforting layers of a classic lasagna without the fuss of multiple pots, pans, and endless baking time, then this One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Picture perfectly tender noodles soaking up a fragrant tomato and beef sauce, all topped with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan—all cooked together in a single skillet. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners or any time you crave that hearty Italian classic without the hassle. Trust me, this recipe brings together convenience and crave-worthy flavor in the most delightful, warm way imaginable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and essential ingredients is the key to this dish’s magic. Each plays its role: from the savory ground beef that forms the rich base, to the fresh herbs that infuse brightness, and the trio of cheeses bringing incomparable creaminess and flavor. Everything harmonizes beautifully in one pan, creating a dish that’s both comforting and full of character.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Choose lean for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- 1 medium Onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential to build that aromatic foundation.
- 1 can (28 ounces) Crushed Tomatoes: The hearty tomato sauce base that ties everything together.
- 2 cups Beef Broth: Enriches the sauce, adding savory complexity.
- 8 ounces Lasagna Noodles: No-boil types, broken into manageable pieces for easy cooking in the skillet.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb lending subtle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil: Offers a slightly sweet, aromatic touch complementing the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a little heat brings balance and excitement.
- 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese: Adds luscious creaminess that melts beautifully throughout.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Key to that irresistible, gooey cheese pull.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty, salty finish that elevates the flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To season perfectly to your taste.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of fresh color and brightness at the end.
How to Make One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until fully browned and deliciously fragrant. This step builds the savory foundation of your dish, so take a moment to get a good sear. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep things tidy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—trust me, that minute makes a world of difference in flavor depth.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine all those luscious juices. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Season with salt and pepper, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. This simmer lets the flavors marry beautifully, setting the stage for the perfect lasagna sauce.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Cook
Break the no-boil lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and add them to your skillet, making sure they’re submerged in the sauce. Cover the pan and let everything cook together for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This one-pot technique means the noodles soak up all that rich sauce—no separate boiling needed!
Step 5: Dollop on the Ricotta
While the noodles cook, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Once the noodles are tender, spoon dollops of this creamy mixture over the skillet and gently press them down so they melt perfectly between those layers of sauce and pasta.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes until the cheeses melt, bubble, and develop that inviting golden hue that signals dinner is ready.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes—it’ll thicken up slightly and become easier to serve. Just before digging in, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh finish that brightens every bite.
How to Serve One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some torn fresh basil leaves can add a burst of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness that lights up each forkful. For an extra flavor punch, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few grates of Parmesan right before serving never fail to impress.
Side Dishes
This One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to keep things fresh and balanced. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf is another classic partner, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this lasagna straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy presentation that feels like home. Or, portion it out into individual bowls garnished with extra cheese and herbs for a charming family-style feel. You can also layer leftovers in small ramekins, then broil until bubbly for a delightful twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your second serving even more satisfying. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes brilliantly. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you always have an effortless, comforting meal on hand.
Reheating
Reheat your One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry to bring back that saucy, silky texture. Cover while reheating to keep the cheese melty and the noodles tender.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. They’ll give the dish a lighter taste while still soaking up all that beautiful tomato sauce and spices.
Do the lasagna noodles need to be no-boil?
No-boil noodles work best here since they cook directly in the sauce, absorbing moisture. If you only have regular noodles, you can pre-cook them slightly before adding, but no-boil keeps things simpler.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian dish that’s still hearty and flavorful.
Can I prepare this ahead of time before cooking?
You can assemble most of the ingredients up to Step 4 in advance and refrigerate. When ready to cook, just continue with cooking and adding cheeses. This saves time on busy days.
What wine pairs well with One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe?
A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato-based sauce and rich cheeses beautifully. If you prefer white, a crisp Pinot Grigio with good acidity works nicely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a dish that delivers rich flavor, cozy comfort, and minimal clean-up all at once. The One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe hits all those marks and more. It’s perfect for busy nights, casual dinners, or anytime you crave that classic Italian warmth without much fuss. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone asks for again and again!
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Print
One Pot Skillet Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pot Skillet Lasagna is a quick and flavorful twist on the classic Italian favorite. Using no-boil noodles and cooking everything in a single skillet, this recipe layers hearty ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a trio of cheeses into a comforting, cheesy meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound Ground Beef (Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.)
- 1 medium Onion, diced (Adds sweetness and depth.)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Essential for adding flavor.)
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 can (28 ounces) Crushed Tomatoes (Primary sauce for the lasagna.)
- 2 cups Beef Broth (Enhances flavor.)
Pasta
- 8 ounces Lasagna Noodles (No-boil noodles, broken into pieces.)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Classic Italian herb.)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (Pairs well with tomatoes.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for heat.)
- Salt and Pepper (To taste.)
Cheeses
- 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese (Adds creaminess.)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Essential for that cheesy top.)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Adds salty, nutty flavor.)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped (For garnish.)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring well to combine. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Noodles: Break the no-boil lasagna noodles into pieces and add them directly to the skillet. Stir to ensure the noodles are fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add Ricotta Cheese: In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture evenly over the lasagna in the skillet, gently pressing down to incorporate it into the layers.
- Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheeses have melted and become bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh herbaceous note and color.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef lowers the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes according to taste.
- This recipe works well with no-boil or pre-cooked lasagna noodles to ensure timely cooking in the skillet.
- For a vegetarian variation, substitute ground beef with mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth.
- Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
