This Skillet Lasagna is a fun, one-pan meal that layers noodles, rich sauce, and gooey cheese. It cooks up quickly and tastes just like the classic dish you love!
It’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the oven! I love that I can enjoy all the flavors of lasagna without all the fuss. Who’s with me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less fat. You can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you want it vegetarian!
Marinara Sauce: This sets the base flavor. If you don’t have marinara, a jar of your favorite pasta sauce will do! Homemade sauce also works well if you’re feeling adventurous.
Pasta: I like mafaldine for its fun shape, but use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or even broken lasagna noodles. Just make sure it cooks quickly!
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice, but feel free to play around with cheeses like provolone for a different taste. For a little kick, add some pepper jack for extra flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta in a Skillet Dish?
Cooking pasta directly in the skillet with the sauce creates a one-pan wonder! This method lets the flavors meld beautifully. Here’s how you get it right:
- Heat the sauce and broth together before adding your pasta for even cooking.
- Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged to absorb all that tasty sauce.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to keep it from sticking to the bottom. If it’s too thick, splash in a little extra broth or water.
With a bit of patience, you’ll end up with perfectly tender pasta coated in sauce and topped with melted cheese. Enjoy your skillet lasagna!
How to Make Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meat Base:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Sauce:
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Pasta and Cheese:
- 8 oz mafaldine pasta (or broken lasagna noodles)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Skillet Lasagna recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
First, turn up the heat on your large cast iron skillet or deep pan. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes. This will give your lasagna a good hearty base!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these together with the beef, stirring until the onion becomes soft and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes. If there’s too much grease, you can drain a bit of it off.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the marinara sauce, beef broth (or water), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Pasta:
It’s time to add the pasta! Sprinkle it into the skillet, making sure to spread it out evenly. Push it down a bit, so most of it gets submerged in the sauce. This way, it cooks perfectly and absorbs all those delicious flavors!
5. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking and to check that the pasta is cooking well.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the lid. Now sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. It’s about to get cheesy!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the skillet one last time and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. The cheese will melt beautifully and start to bubble.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your skillet lasagna with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Scoop portions directly from the skillet and enjoy this easy, cheesy delight!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitution for a healthier alternative. Just be mindful that it may require a slightly shorter cooking time, so check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time.
Can I Make This Skillet Lasagna Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives for a similar texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. This helps keep the pasta moist!
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, like spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic to ensure they’re cooked and flavorful in the dish.
