Skillet Lasagna

Introduction

Forget the hours of layering and baking. This Skillet Lasagna delivers all the comforting flavors of the classic dish in a fraction of the time, using just one pan. You get perfectly cooked noodles, a rich meaty sauce, and creamy, melted cheese in under 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate solution for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium sweet onion (, diced (roughly 1 cup))
• 2 garlic cloves (, minced)
• 2 teaspoons homemade Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons fresh basil (, chopped)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 24 ounces tomato sauce
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (, not drained)
• 1 cup water
• 8 ounces lasagna noodles (, broken into pieces (regular, not no-boil or oven ready))
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (or fresh basil)

Instructions

1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, fresh basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and 1 cup of water. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Carefully add the broken lasagna noodle pieces, pushing them down into the sauce so they are submerged. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender.
5. Once the noodles are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Dollop the ricotta cheese over the top of the lasagna mixture.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ricotta. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3-5 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Variations

• Meat Swap: For a different flavor, substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella before the final melt for an extra layer of flavor.
• Veggie-Packed: While cooking the onion, add in other finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Creamier Version: Thin the ricotta with a tablespoon or two of milk before dolloping for a smoother, more integrated texture.

Tips for Success

• Break Noodles Evenly: Try to break the lasagna noodles into similar-sized pieces (roughly 1-2 inches) for even cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Simmer: Keep the heat at a steady simmer once the noodles are added. A rapid boil can make the sauce reduce too quickly before the noodles are cooked.
• Cover Consistently: Keeping the lid on while the noodles cook traps steam, which is essential for properly hydrating and softening the pasta.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the skillet sit covered after adding the cheese helps the cheese melt perfectly and allows the lasagna to set slightly for easier serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or in the microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQ

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

No, this recipe is specifically designed for regular lasagna noodles that cook in the sauce. No-boil noodles require different moisture levels and cooking times.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?

If you don’t have fresh basil, you can add an extra ½ to 1 teaspoon of your Italian seasoning blend to the sauce in step 2.

My sauce seems too thick before the noodles are done. What should I do?

If the sauce is reducing too quickly, simply add a few extra tablespoons of water, stir, and continue cooking until the noodles are tender.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but you will need a very large, deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot to accommodate everything. Ensure you stir more frequently to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom.

Is the ricotta cheese necessary?

The ricotta provides the classic lasagna creaminess, but you can omit it if desired and simply use extra mozzarella, or substitute with a small amount of cottage cheese.

How do I know when the noodles are done?

Taste a piece! The noodles should be tender and fully cooked through, similar to the texture of boiled pasta.