One Pot Skillet Lasagna

One Pot Skillet Lasagna is a simplified twist on the classic Italian comfort dish, made entirely in one pan for ease and minimal cleanup. With layers of savory meat, rich tomato sauce, tender noodles, and gooey melted cheese, this version captures everything you love about traditional lasagna—without the fuss of boiling noodles or using multiple dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Everything cooks in a single skillet—less mess
• Ready in a fraction of the time of traditional lasagna
• Classic lasagna flavor without layering or baking
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Easily customizable with different meats or veggies
• Melty cheese and tender noodles in every bite
• Great for weeknight dinners
• Freezer-friendly for future meals
• Feeds a crowd or leaves delicious leftovers
• Cozy, satisfying, and comforting

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Onion
• Garlic
• Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
• Lasagna noodles (broken into pieces)
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes or marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add broken lasagna noodles directly into the skillet. Stir to submerge the noodles in the sauce.
5. Cover and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
6. Spoon dollops of ricotta over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Cover again and cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra vegetables
• Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a budget-friendly swap
• Make it spicy with crushed red pepper or spicy sausage
• Go meatless with plant-based crumbles or lentils
• Try gluten-free lasagna noodles if needed

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot or warm in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sauce.
Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular lasagna noodles without boiling?

Yes, just break them into pieces and let them cook right in the sauce.

Do I need to cover the skillet while it cooks?

Yes, covering helps the noodles cook evenly and prevents drying out.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Absolutely—just choose your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in individual portions or as a full batch in a freezer-safe container.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, just skip the meat and add more veggies or a plant-based protein.

What if my sauce gets too thick while cooking?

Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while simmering.

What cheese works best?

A combo of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives great flavor and texture.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, but regular noodles broken up work just as well and are often cheaper.

How do I keep noodles from sticking together?

Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.

Can I make this in a Dutch oven?

Yes, any large, deep skillet or Dutch oven will work for this recipe.

Conclusion

One Pot Skillet Lasagna delivers all the rich, cheesy, saucy goodness of classic lasagna without the hassle. It’s a time-saving, family-approved meal perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving cozy comfort food, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

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