One-Pan Skillet Lasagna Recipe

This One-Pan Skillet Lasagna is everything you love about classic lasagna, minus all the hassle and stack-and-bake drama! Layers of tender noodles, flavorful meat sauce, and gooey cheese all come together in a single skillet for pure weeknight magic. If you’re craving hearty Italian comfort food with minimal cleanup, this is the answer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is proof that you don’t need a complicated grocery list for amazing Italian comfort food! Each ingredient plays a key role—from the beef and bold marinara sauce, to the classic triple-cheese combination—creating irresistible flavor, texture, and that iconic lasagna look.

• Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and adds richness to the sauce.
• Lean ground beef: Provides savory depth and heartiness in each bite.
• Garlic: Essential for classic Italian aroma and flavor—don’t skip it!
• Marinara sauce: The zesty tomato base that pulls the whole lasagna together in minutes.
• Water: Hydrates the broken noodles as they cook, making everything luscious and saucy.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings bright, fragrant highlights to the sauce.
• Lasagna noodles (not no-boil): Break them by hand for that rustic, homemade vibe—they cook perfectly right in the skillet.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, slightly sweet dollops that melt into the dish.
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Delivers salty, nutty sharpness (fresh is best for big flavor!).
• Mozzarella cheese, grated: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible gooey cheese pull.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer to perfection.

Variations

One of the best things about this One-Pan Skillet Lasagna is how easy it is to tweak to match your mood, what’s in your fridge, or any dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to play—this dish is endlessly adaptable!

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a meatless main that’s just as hearty.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage instead of beef for extra warmth and zing.
• Light & Fresh: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale a few minutes before serving for color, nutrition, and a green touch.
• Cheese Swap: Try provolone, fontina, or even a dairy-free mozzarella alternative if you need a different flavor or want it lactose-free.

How to Make One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef, season it with salt and pepper, and break it up as it cooks. You want the beef nicely browned and crumbly—it adds a ton of flavor and gives the sauce a rich base.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Once the beef is cooked through, add the minced garlic, and let it sizzle for just about 30 seconds. This quick step makes your kitchen smell incredible and wakes up those classic Italian flavors without letting the garlic burn.

Step 3: Build the Sauce & Add Pasta

Pour in the marinara sauce, water, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Snap the lasagna noodles into rough, 2-inch pieces and stir them right into the sauce. Don’t worry if the noodles seem uneven—that’s the secret to the rustic charm of One-Pan Skillet Lasagna!

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Lift the lid once or twice and give a stir to make sure nothing sticks. The noodles will soften and absorb all those delicious flavors. If the mixture starts looking dry, simply add a splash more water.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta and Parmesan with a pinch of salt and pepper. When the noodles are perfectly tender, drop spoonfuls of this creamy mixture over the skillet. Sprinkle the mozzarella all over the top for that perfect melt and stretch.

Step 6: Melt & Serve

Turn off the heat, cover, and let the skillet rest for about 5 minutes—this will gently melt the cheese and let the lasagna set. If you like your cheese browned and bubbly, pop the uncovered skillet under your broiler for a minute or two. Spoon into bowls and dig right in!

How to Serve One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley over each portion takes this humble One-Pan Skillet Lasagna from cozy to special-occasion worthy. If you want an extra burst of flavor, a little more Parmesan on top never hurt anyone!

Side Dishes

Pair this lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in a peppery vinaigrette, or serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables are also lovely, balancing out the cheesy richness of the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, casual dinner, serve One-Pan Skillet Lasagna family-style right from the pan with a big serving spoon. Or, for a dinner party twist, spoon portions into shallow bowls and finish with a touch of extra green and a dramatic cheese melt under the broiler.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), spoon them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen and become even more delicious for next-day lunches.

Freezing

To freeze, let the skillet lasagna cool, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm larger amounts on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. If you want the cheese to re-melt perfectly, pop it under the broiler for a minute, just like on day one!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this One-Pan Skillet Lasagna a try—it’s pure, unfussy coziness, perfect for a comforting family dinner or a treat-yourself weeknight. Gather around the table and dig in, because beautiful Italian flavor is easier and faster than ever before!

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