Description
This Easy Skillet Lasagna is a quick, one-pan version of the classic Italian favorite. Ground beef or Italian sausage is browned with onions and garlic, simmered in marinara sauce with broken lasagna noodles, then topped with a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses melted to perfection. Finished with fresh parsley, it’s a hearty and comforting meal ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a fuss-free cheesy pasta dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 can (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage together with the finely chopped onion until the meat is fully browned and the onion softens, ensuring the flavors meld and any excess fat cooks off.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant to enhance the aroma and depth of the sauce.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the marinara sauce and water, then add dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to develop.
- Add Noodles and Cook: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, stirring well to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are softened and tender.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and evenly dollop the ricotta cheese on top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the ricotta to form the cheesy topping.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes off the heat so the cheeses melt into a creamy layer.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor before serving hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage.
- Add extra vegetables such as chopped zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Using broken noodles speeds up the cooking process and eliminates the need for layering like traditional baked lasagna.
- Covering the skillet during cooking prevents the noodles from drying out and ensures even cooking.
- This recipe serves 4 but can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
