Quick Easy Skillet Lasagna Fast Simple Dinner

Introduction

This skillet lasagna turns classic comfort into a fast weeknight win. It cooks in a single pan, so cleanup is minimal and the timer is friendly. You get layered lasagna flavor without boiling whole noodles or heating the oven. Perfect for busy nights when you want hearty food with little fuss.

Why This Recipe Works

This method strips lasagna down to what matters most flavor filling and ease. Browning the meat first builds savory depth right in the skillet so the sauce and cheese taste richer. Breaking the noodles into pieces lets them cook evenly in the sauce without precooking. Using ricotta blended in at the end keeps the texture creamy without turning watery. A short covered simmer softens pasta through the sauce so the dish finishes in about the same time it takes to set the table. Because everything cooks together you save time and dishes while still getting that layered lasagna satisfaction.

Flavor and Texture

The combination of browned beef or sausage and bright marinara creates a classic Italian profile. Ricotta adds a mild creamy counterpoint to melted mozzarella for a balanced mouthfeel. Parmesan on top gives a salty nutty finish and a slight crust as it warms. The broken noodles absorb sauce so each bite is saucy but not soupy. A few leaves of fresh basil brighten the final plate and lift the heavier dairy notes.

Ingredients

• Easy Skillet Lasagna
• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef or sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Break the lasagna noodles into shorter pieces and add them to the skillet. Pour the marinara sauce over the noodles, and add enough water to cover.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
5. Stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Cover and let it melt for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use preminced garlic and jarred chopped onion to cut prep time if you are extremely rushed. Swap ground beef for a lean turkey for a lighter version while keeping the same steps. If the sauce seems thick before adding water start with less and add more as needed so noodles cook without sticking. Shred your own mozzarella for better melting and less clumping. Finish with a splash of olive oil and a few basil leaves for a fresh lift.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container. Stored this way the dish keeps well for up to three days and reheats in a skillet or microwave. For meal prep portion into single servings so reheating is quick and even. You can freeze in freezer safe containers for up to two months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Short Closing Note

This skillet lasagna is a no fuss crowd pleaser that respects your time. It gives the classic lasagna experience with minimal hands on work.

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Quick Easy Skillet Lasagna

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A fast, one-pan lasagna with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef or sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Break the lasagna noodles into shorter pieces and add them to the skillet. Pour the marinara sauce over the noodles, and add enough water to cover.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
5. Stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Cover and let it melt for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Use preminced garlic and jarred chopped onion to save time. Substitute ground beef with lean turkey for a lighter version.

• Author: Chef Hanna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg