Quick & Easy Skillet Lasagna: Dinner in Under 30 Minutes!

Craving lasagna but don’t have hours to spend layering and baking? This Quick & Easy Skillet Lasagna is the answer! It captures all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna in a fraction of the time, using just one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a guaranteed family favorite. Forget the fussy layering and long baking times; this skillet version delivers cheesy, saucy goodness in under 30 minutes. Get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal without the hassle!

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Lasagna

• Ready in Under 30 Minutes: Seriously! From start to finish, you’ll be enjoying lasagna in less than half an hour.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is always a win. This recipe uses just one skillet, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, saucy flavors of this dish.
• Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. Add different vegetables, meats, or cheeses to create your perfect skillet lasagna.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage): Provides the hearty protein base for our lasagna. You can also use ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds flavor and depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that classic Italian flavor.
• 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand. You can also use homemade marinara sauce.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Helps to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a touch of Italian herb flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat. Omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season to perfection.
• 9 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: We’re using broken noodles for easier cooking in the skillet.
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy and cheesy layer.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor.
• 1 egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture together.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, cheesy topping we all love.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a touch of freshness and color.
• Olive oil: For sauteing the onion and garlic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious skillet lasagna:

1. Brown the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Add the Noodles: Break the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces (about 2-3 inches) and add them to the skillet. Stir to make sure the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
5. Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out.
6. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: While the noodles are cooking, prepare the ricotta mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until smooth.
7. Add the Ricotta Cheese: Once the noodles are cooked, dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top of the skillet. Gently spread the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
8. Add Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ricotta mixture.
9. Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet again and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two to melt the cheese. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your skillet lasagna? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Use Different Meat: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even shredded chicken. For a vegetarian option, use crumbled tofu or lentils.
• Add Vegetables: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Make it Creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
• Add Wine: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers for added depth of flavor.
• Use Different Noodles: While broken lasagna noodles work best, you can also use other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or even small shells. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the type of pasta you use.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the sauce for a more vibrant flavor.
• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the ricotta mixture and brown the meat ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping into the saucy goodness.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing accompaniment.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad is always a great choice.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftover skillet lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: Reheat skillet lasagna in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? While no-boil noodles can be used, they may not cook as evenly in the skillet. It’s best to use regular lasagna noodles that have been broken into pieces. You may need to add a little extra liquid to the skillet to ensure the noodles cook properly.
• Can I freeze skillet lasagna? Yes, you can freeze skillet lasagna. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, lentils, or a mix of vegetables.
• Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• The sauce is too thick. What should I do? Add a little water or broth to the skillet to thin out the sauce.
• The noodles are not cooking properly. What should I do? Make sure the noodles are submerged in the sauce. If necessary, add a little more liquid to the skillet. Cover the skillet tightly and simmer until the noodles are tender.
• Can I add spinach to this recipe? Yes, you can add spinach to this recipe. Add it to the skillet along with the onion and garlic. Cook until the spinach is wilted.

Enjoy!

This Quick & Easy Skillet Lasagna is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the fuss. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Bon appétit!