One-Pan Tortellini Lasagna Skillet: A Quick & Easy Dinner Recipe

Are you craving lasagna but don’t have the time or energy for the traditional baking process? This One-Pan Tortellini Lasagna Skillet is the perfect solution! It combines all the delicious flavors of lasagna – rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and savory meat – with the ease and convenience of a one-pan skillet meal. Using cheese tortellini as a shortcut replaces the need for lasagna noodles, making this dish incredibly quick and simple to prepare. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! This recipe is a family-friendly favorite that’s sure to become a weeknight staple.

## Why You’ll Love This Tortellini Lasagna Skillet

* **Quick & Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, this is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **One-Pan Meal:** Minimal cleanup – everything cooks in a single skillet.
* **Kid-Friendly:** The familiar flavors of lasagna combined with cheesy tortellini make it a hit with kids.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your family’s preferences with different meats, vegetables, and cheeses.
* **Delicious:** All the classic lasagna flavors you love, without the fuss.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious tortellini lasagna skillet:

* **Cheese Tortellini:** 20 oz package of refrigerated cheese tortellini. You can also use frozen tortellini, but be sure to thaw it slightly before cooking. Other flavored tortellini, such as spinach or mushroom, will also work well, but cheese is the most traditional choice for lasagna flavor.
* **Ground Meat:** 1 pound of ground beef, Italian sausage (sweet or hot), or a combination of both. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used for a lighter option. Remember to drain any excess fat after browning the meat.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Adds a savory base flavor to the sauce.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced. Essential for that classic Italian flavor.
* **Crushed Tomatoes:** 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes. Forms the base of the lasagna sauce.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
* **Italian Seasoning:** 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. A blend of herbs that provides the classic lasagna flavor profile.
* **Salt & Pepper:** To taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
* **Sugar:** 1 teaspoon (optional). Helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
* **Ricotta Cheese:** 15 oz container of ricotta cheese. Adds a creamy, cheesy layer to the skillet lasagna. Part-skim or whole milk ricotta can be used.
* **Egg:** 1 large egg. Helps bind the ricotta cheese mixture.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the ricotta mixture.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Creates that melty, cheesy topping that everyone loves.
* **Fresh Basil:** (Optional) For garnish. Adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the finished dish.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large Skillet (oven-safe preferred, or use a regular skillet and transfer to a baking dish).
* Mixing Bowl.
* Measuring Cups and Spoons.
* Wooden Spoon or Spatula.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Tortellini Lasagna Skillet:

**Step 1: Brown the Meat**

* Place the skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground meat (beef, sausage, or a combination) to the skillet.
* Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink.
* Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.

**Step 2: Sauté Aromatics**

* Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned meat.
* Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 3: Make the Sauce**

* Pour the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste into the skillet with the meat and onions.
* Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
* Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

**Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture**

* While the sauce is simmering, prepare the ricotta cheese mixture.
* In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
* Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

**Step 5: Assemble the Skillet Lasagna**

* Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently stir to coat the tortellini evenly in the sauce.
* Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the tortellini and sauce.
* Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire skillet.

**Step 6: Bake or Simmer to Melt the Cheese**

* **If using an oven-safe skillet:** Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
* **If using a regular skillet:** Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the lasagna is heated through. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and bake as described above.

**Step 7: Garnish and Serve**

* Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the oven (or remove the lid from the skillet if simmering).
* Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
* Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before serving.
* Serve hot and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onion for added flavor and nutrients.
* **Use Different Meats:** Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use cooked and crumbled Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Add Spinach:** Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina in addition to or instead of mozzarella.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add extra vegetables, or use a meat substitute like plant-based ground beef.
* **Creamy Sauce:** Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream into the sauce before adding the cheese for extra richness.
* **Broil for Extra Color:** For a more browned and bubbly cheese topping, broil the skillet lasagna for a minute or two at the end of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
* **Herbs:** Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can be used in addition to or instead of basil for garnish.
* **Cheese Tortellini Variations:** Experiment with different flavors of cheese tortellini. Spinach and ricotta tortellini can add an extra dimension of flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

This Tortellini Lasagna Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to round out your dinner:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the rich lasagna.
* **Garlic Bread:** Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and easy side dishes.
* **Crusty Bread:** A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce.
* **Wine Pairing:** A light-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs well with the Italian flavors of the lasagna.

## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the Tortellini Lasagna Skillet ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or simmering. Be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
* **Storage:** Store leftover Tortellini Lasagna Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through. To reheat in the oven, cover the skillet with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
* **Freezing:** While technically you *can* freeze it, the texture of the tortellini and ricotta may change. If you choose to freeze, cool the lasagna completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Recipe Card

**One-Pan Tortellini Lasagna Skillet**

A quick and easy dinner recipe combining the flavors of lasagna with the convenience of a one-pan meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

**Ingredients:**

* 20 oz package refrigerated cheese tortellini
* 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
* 15 oz container ricotta cheese
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Brown the ground meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add cheese tortellini to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Dollop ricotta mixture over the tortellini.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Or, cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

**Notes:**

* Customize with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses.
* For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

## Conclusion

This One-Pan Tortellini Lasagna Skillet is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. So, ditch the complicated lasagna recipe and give this simple skillet version a try. You won’t be disappointed!