One Pan Skillet Lasagna

This One-Pot Skillet Lasagna brings all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna without the fuss of multiple pans or long baking times. It combines ground beef, Italian sausage, and a melty blend of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese all cooked together in one skillet for an easy and satisfying meal.

This dish feels like a warm hug after a long day making it a quick comfort food I rely on often especially when the week gets hectic and I want something hearty without the hassle

Ingredients

• Ground Beef: provides hearty flavor and protein choose lean for less grease
• Yellow Onion: adds sweetness and depth if possible pick firm onions with dry skins
• Onion Powder: boosts the onion flavor without extra chopping
• Garlic Powder: essential for that classic Italian aroma and taste
• Italian Seasoning: a blend of herbs that adds complexity try to use fresh or high-quality dried herbs
• Salt and Black Pepper: fundamental seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors
• Pasta Sauce: use a robust marinara or your favorite pasta sauce for a rich tomato base
• Chicken Broth: helps cook the noodles and adds extra savory notes best if low sodium for control
• Lasagna Sheets: breaking them up helps them cook evenly in the skillet fresh or dry sheets both work
• Parmesan Cheese: sharp and salty this cheese adds a perfect finishing touch and depth
• Mozzarella Cheese: melts beautifully creating that irresistible gooey layer select whole milk mozzarella if possible
• Ricotta Cheese: creamy and mild balances the savory meat and tomato well choose freshly packed for best texture

How To Make One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Sauté the Meat and Onions:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat add ground beef and diced yellow onions. Cook stirring occasionally until the meat is browned and no pink remains about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat carefully then return the meat mixture to the skillet.

Season the Meat:

Sprinkle onion powder garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper over the cooked meat. Stir well to evenly coat. Pour in the pasta sauce and chicken broth mixing everything until combined creating the flavorful base for your lasagna.

Add and Cook the Pasta:

Break lasagna sheets into smaller pieces and add them to the skillet making sure each piece is coated with sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10 to 15 minutes stirring occasionally. Watch closely and add a little water if the mixture looks too dry to ensure noodles become tender but still firm to the bite.

Prepare the Cheese Layer:

While pasta cooks mix ricotta cheese with half the parmesan and mozzarella in a bowl until smooth and well combined. Drop spoonfuls of this cheese mixture in dollops over the partially cooked noodles.

Finish Baking:

Sprinkle the remaining parmesan and mozzarella over the top of the skillet. Transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 350 degrees. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy:

Let it cool slightly before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy this quick and comforting version of lasagna with minimal hassle.

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Ricotta cheese is my favorite ingredient in this lasagna because it adds creamy richness that makes each bite smooth and luscious. One memorable family moment was when my kids asked for seconds twice in a row because they loved that cheesy layer so much.

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container to avoid sogginess. Keep refrigerated and consume within 3 to 4 days. To reheat gently warm in the microwave or oven adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce and noodles.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef and sausage for a lighter dish. Cottage cheese can stand in for ricotta for a lower fat option. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist and add chopped mushrooms or spinach to bulk up the nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this skillet lasagna with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or a side of garlic bread to complete the meal. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon can round out the flavors nicely.

Cultural Context

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish traditionally baked in layers but this skillet version shares the same deep-rooted flavors while embracing a modern shortcut that suits today’s busy cooks. It highlights how Italian comfort food can adapt and thrive even with fewer steps and tools in the kitchen.

Pro Tips

Use a large deep skillet or saute pan so the pasta cooks evenly and there is room for the ingredients to mingle. Keep an eye on the liquid level while simmering adding water gradually to avoid dry pasta. Don’t skip mixing different cheeses this combo is essential for that signature creamy cheesy texture.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ How to ensure noodles cook evenly in the skillet?

Use broken lasagna sheets and keep the sauce simmering with enough liquid, adding water if needed, to cook noodles tender but firm.

→ When is the lasagna fully cooked?

The cheese topping should be melted and golden brown, with pasta tender yet slightly firm to the bite when stirred gently.

→ Can I add vegetables to the skillet lasagna?

Yes, chopped vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added with the meat to enhance flavor and nutrition.

→ Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey works well for a lighter version; Italian sausage can also be used for additional flavor.

→ What skillet size is best for this dish?

A large, deep skillet or sauté pan ensures even cooking and enough space for pasta to soak in the sauce thoroughly.

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