One-Pan Skillet Lasagna Recipe

If you love classic lasagna but dread the dishes and the hours-long process, say hello to your new best friend: One-Pan Skillet Lasagna. This dreamy weeknight wonder brings all the comforting flavors of lasagna to your table in under 30 minutes—no layering, no fuss, just pure cheesy satisfaction in a single pan!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One-Pan Skillet Lasagna leans on simple, real ingredients that work together to create those comforting layers of flavor and texture we all crave. Every component has its unique part to play, from luscious cheese to sauce-kissed noodles.

• Olive oil: For sautéing and developing a rich, savory base flavor right at the start.
• Lean ground beef: Brings hearty, meaty notes—feel free to sub with ground turkey for a lighter touch.
• Garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant boost and that classic Italian aroma we can’t resist.
• Marinara sauce: The saucy heart of this skillet; use your favorite store-bought or homemade version.
• Water: Adds moisture, so the noodles can simmer and soak up all those beautiful flavors.
• Italian seasoning: Provides a whisper of balanced herbs for that unmistakable lasagna magic.
• Lasagna noodles (not no-boil): Traditional noodles, broken into pieces—so every bite captures sauce, cheese, and pasta.
• Ricotta cheese: For creamy dollops of cheesy goodness that mimic baked lasagna layers.
• Parmesan (freshly grated): Adds savory depth and a hint of saltiness.
• Mozzarella (grated): Melts to a luscious, gooey finish on top—an absolute must!
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Because seasoning as you go makes every layer sing.

Variations

One of the best things about One-Pan Skillet Lasagna is how easy it is to tweak and customize to suit your mood, pantry, or special diets. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—lasagna loves a little creativity!

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in spicy Italian sausage instead of beef for a touch of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and check that your marinara is GF-friendly.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or kale with the sauce—you’ll hardly notice but your body will thank you!

How to Make One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and break it up as it cooks. Sauté until everything is nicely browned and any moisture has evaporated—you want a good sear for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic for Flavor

Stir in the minced garlic right as the beef finishes browning. Cook for just about 30 seconds—garlic goes from perfectly aromatic to burnt quickly, so keep it moving to release those fragrant oils!

Step 3: Simmer with Sauce & Noodles

Pour in the marinara sauce, water, and Italian seasoning. Break the lasagna noodles into rough 2-inch pieces and nestle them straight into the sauce. Give everything a good stir to make sure all the noodles are submerged—they’ll absorb flavor while they soften.

Step 4: Cover and Cook

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it gently bubble for about 15 minutes, giving the sauce an occasional stir, until the noodles are cooked al dente. If the sauce thickens too much, simply splash in a bit more water.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Toppings

In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta and Parmesan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Once the noodles are tender, dollop this mixture all across the skillet, then sprinkle everything with mozzarella. For maximum mozzarella melt, cover for a few minutes off the heat, or slide the skillet under the broiler for a golden, bubbly top.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Let the finished One-Pan Skillet Lasagna rest, covered, for about five minutes off the heat. This helps all the cheesy, saucy goodness settle so it’s easier to scoop and serve. Dig in and savor those classic layers—with just a single pan to wash later!

How to Serve One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Garnishes

Scatter fresh basil or chopped Italian parsley over the top for a pop of color and a fragrant finish. A final dusting of extra Parmesan is never a bad idea—it makes each scoop just a little more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This skillet lasagna loves a simple salad—think peppery arugula tossed with lemon, or classic Caesar. And let’s not forget warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette, perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, carefully spoon portions into shallow bowls so everyone gets a bit of saucy edge and molten cheese. For parties, serve straight from the skillet for that cozy, family-style feel—just add plenty of napkins and maybe an extra round of freshly ground pepper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pan Skillet Lasagna keeps beautifully! Transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a dreamy next-day lunch.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your lasagna, let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months—just make sure to fully thaw before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave—add a spoonful of water to keep it moist—or reheat in a covered skillet over low heat. If you love crispy cheese, pop under the broiler for one or two minutes right before serving!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving cozy, classic Italian comfort but need dinner in a flash, give this One-Pan Skillet Lasagna a try. I promise, one bite and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your weeknight lineup—no oven (or marathon cleanup) required. Mangia!

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