One Pot Lasagna Pasta

One Pot Lasagna Pasta is the perfect solution for when you’re craving the hearty flavors of lasagna but don’t want to fuss with layers or multiple dishes. This recipe combines tender pasta, a rich tomato-meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese in a single pot for an easy and comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the Flavors of Lasagna: Without the time-consuming layering process.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Meat:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Build the Sauce:
   • Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Pasta:
   • Break lasagna noodles into pieces and stir them into the sauce. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Incorporate Ricotta:
   • Stir in ricotta cheese for a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or skip the meat entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free pasta.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for a heat boost.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or frozen peas for added nutrients.
• White Lasagna: Use Alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce for a creamy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like penne or rotini work well if lasagna noodles aren’t available.

2. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot?

Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free ricotta and cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.

4. What’s the best type of meat to use?

Ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both work beautifully. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

The dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

6. What can I use instead of ricotta?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used as a substitute for ricotta.

7. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of red wine adds depth to the sauce. Simmer for a minute before adding the pasta.

8. How do I adjust the consistency of the sauce?

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.

9. What cheese is best for topping?

Mozzarella is classic, but you can use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for extra flavor.

10. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for the meat and aromatics, then pressure cook on high for 4–5 minutes after adding the pasta and sauce.

Conclusion

One Pot Lasagna Pasta is a cozy, satisfying dish that brings all the beloved flavors of lasagna into a simpler, faster format. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is easy to customize and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Serve it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete, comforting meal. Enjoy!

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