Skillet Lasagna – One Pan Wonder

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Skillet Lasagna – One Pan Wonder: A Quick and Delicious Family Meal

When it comes to comfort food, lasagna tops the list for many. However, traditional lasagna can be time-consuming, requiring multiple pots, pans, and layers of effort. Enter Skillet Lasagna—a game-changing, one-pan wonder that delivers all the rich flavors of classic lasagna in half the time!

In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy, foolproof recipe for skillet lasagna that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it also minimizes cleanup, making it a win-win for home cooks. Plus, we’ll share tips to customize it to your liking while keeping it family-friendly and hassle-free.

Why You’ll Love Skillet Lasagna

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why this one-pan lasagna is a must-try:

Faster than traditional lasagna – No boiling noodles separately or layering for hours.
Minimal cleanup – Everything cooks in one skillet.
Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs.
Kid-approved – Cheesy, saucy, and packed with flavor.
Meal prep friendly – Tastes even better the next day!

Now, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Skillet Lasagna

To make this easy skillet lasagna, you’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • A small onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade if preferred)
  • 1 cup water or beef broth
  • 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (no-boil noodles work best)
  • 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
  • A large egg (helps bind the ricotta)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Spinach or kale (for extra greens)
  • Mushrooms (for an earthy flavor)
  • Zucchini (great for sneaking in veggies)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably oven-safe) over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Noodles

Pour in the marinara sauce and water (or broth), stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Now, add the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they’re mostly submerged in the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles should soften and absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Layer

While the noodles cook, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creamy layer adds richness just like traditional lasagna.

Step 4: Layer the Cheeses

Once the noodles are tender, drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top. Then, sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly across the skillet.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese (Optional Broiling)

If your skillet is oven-safe, place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If not, simply cover the skillet and let the residual heat melt the cheese.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes (this helps it set). Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.

Tips for the Perfect Skillet Lasagna

Use no-boil lasagna noodles – They cook faster and absorb sauce well.
Don’t skip the egg in the ricotta – It prevents the cheese from becoming watery.
Add veggies for extra nutrition – Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers blend in seamlessly.
Adjust liquid as needed – If the noodles aren’t fully cooked, add a splash of water.
Make it ahead – Assemble everything, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pan lasagna is hearty on its own, but pairing it with these sides elevates the meal:

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
Simple green salad – A fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
Roasted vegetables – Adds color and nutrients.

Storing and Reheating

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer – Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating – Warm in the microwave or oven with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Lasagna proves that you don’t need multiple pots and hours of prep to enjoy a comforting Italian classic. With just one pan and 30 minutes, you can serve a cheesy, saucy, and utterly satisfying meal that rivals the traditional version.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—swap proteins, add veggies, or adjust cheeses to make it your own.

Ready to Try It?

Grab your skillet and whip up this easy lasagna tonight. Your family will love the flavors, and you’ll love the simplicity!

Did you make this recipe? Let us know in the comments how it turned out! And if you loved it, share this guide with fellow lasagna lovers. Happy cooking! 🍝

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