Description
This Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna is a quick and comforting meal that combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of one-pan cooking. Featuring ground beef, a blend of cheeses, and broken lasagna noodles simmered together in a savory marinara sauce, it’s a perfect cheesy, hearty dinner ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 medium Onion, chopped (shallots can be used for sweetness)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (fresh preferred)
- 24 ounces Marinara Sauce (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese (or low-fat ricotta/cottage cheese)
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, divided
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 9 ounces Lasagna Noodles, broken into pieces (gluten-free option available)
- 2 cups Water (or broth for enhanced flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (or fresh oregano)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or substitute with fresh basil)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Fresh Basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
- Add Sauces and Cheeses: Stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Incorporate Noodles and Liquid: Carefully add the broken lasagna noodles and water (or broth) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, so the noodles begin to absorb the flavorful sauce.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the noodles become tender and fully cooked.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cover, garnish with freshly chopped basil, slice into portions, and serve hot for a comforting and cheesy meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey and use low-fat ricotta or cottage cheese.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If desired, substitute water with vegetable or chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent noodles from sticking to the skillet.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for enhanced freshness and flavor.
