Skillet Lasagna Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Skillet Lasagna Recipe with friends because it’s like lasagna magic happening in one pan. No fussing with layers in the oven or waiting forever—it’s all about quick comfort food that still feels like a special dinner. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how the flavors developed while the pasta cooked right in the sauce, making cleanup super easy too.

You’ll find that this recipe works great for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests since it comes together in under an hour, yet tastes like you spent all afternoon simmering. Plus, using lean beef and a good balance of cheeses keeps it hearty without feeling too heavy. Trust me, giving this Skillet Lasagna Recipe a try could become one of your favorite quick Italian fixes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work beautifully together to build layers of flavor and creamy textures without the fuss. When choosing your pasta, I recommend something sturdy like Mafalda or Campanelle to hold up while cooking in the sauce.

• Part-skim cottage cheese: Adds a lighter creamy texture, perfect for balancing the rich meat sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty depth to the cheese mixture.
• Chopped parsley: Freshness that brightens each bite.
• Lean ground beef (93%): Keeps the dish hearty but not greasy.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out flavors.
• Olive oil: You’ll use it to sauté aromatics, adding a subtle fruitiness.
• Diced yellow onion: Sweetness and flavor base.
• Chopped garlic: The soul of Italian cooking, giving bold aroma.
• Crushed tomatoes: I like using Tuttorosso for its balanced sweetness and acidity.
• Chicken bone broth: Adds body and richness to the sauce.
• Fresh basil: Aromatic herb that compliments tomato beautifully.
• Pasta (such as Mafalda, Campanelle, or broken lasagna noodles): Choose a pasta shape that will hold sauce well without getting mushy.
• Part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese: Perfect melt and mild creaminess for topping.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own, and this Skillet Lasagna Recipe is no exception. Over time, I’ve tweaked it to suit what’s in my kitchen or specific cravings—we all love that flexibility.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini; the sauce stays rich and satisfying.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic and onions to give it a subtle heat that my family adores.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives and vegan mozzarella to keep creamy without the dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to enjoy this meal without worries.

How to Make Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Start by mixing the cottage cheese, Parmesan, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This blend is creamy with just enough flavor punch to contrast the savory beef sauce. I like prepping this first so it’s ready to go when the pasta finishes cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Heat your 12-inch oven-safe nonstick skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and sprinkle with kosher salt. Using a wooden spoon, break it apart and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Then add olive oil, diced onion, and garlic. Sauté everything until the onions are soft and translucent, about another 4 to 5 minutes. This builds a strong flavor base and ensures no raw onion or garlic bites.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Simmer the Pasta

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, bone broth, and fresh basil. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add your chosen pasta, stirring well to prevent sticking, and make sure the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and simmer uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for just-tender pasta with a slightly thickened sauce and all liquid absorbed—this is where magic happens.

Step 4: Add the Cheese, Broil, and Garnish

Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Dollop spoonfuls of the cottage cheese mixture over the surface without stirring it in. Top everything with shredded mozzarella, then pop the skillet under your broiler on the second rack from the top. Broil on high until the cheese melts and browns slightly—about 3 minutes (watch carefully to avoid burning!). Garnish with extra chopped parsley, and you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Sometimes, I add a few torn basil leaves on top too to echo the flavors inside. A little extra Parmesan grated just before serving is a nice touch when you want a cheesier finish.

Side Dishes

My go-to side with this skillet lasagna is a crisp Caesar salad or simply garlic bread to soak up every bit of the sauce. Roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli also pair beautifully, adding a fresh contrast without overpowering the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this skillet right at the table in the hot pan, letting everyone dig in family-style. You can also portion it into small ramekins before broiling for individual cheesy crust tops—it’s always a hit with guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, these stay delicious for up to 3 days. I find the flavors only deepen overnight, making the next day just as satisfying.

Freezing

This skillet lasagna freezes really well. I portion it out beforehand into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed overnight in the fridge, the texture remains great, and reheating is just as easy.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover leftovers lightly with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the pasta tender and the cheese melty without drying out. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven is best for preserving texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Lasagna Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation because it captures that cozy, homemade feeling without hours of work or dirty dishes. It’s a dish I confidently make when I want to impress with minimal effort or just treat my family to a meal that fills the soul. Give this recipe a go—I promise you’ll love how simple and satisfying it can be.

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