Quick & Easy Skillet Lasagna: Your 30-Minute One-Pan Weeknight Dinner Solution
Discover the ultimate weeknight meal with this incredibly easy and delicious Skillet Lasagna recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, flavorful dinner cooked entirely in one pan, drastically cutting down on cleanup. Enjoy all the beloved tastes of traditional lasagna – rich pasta, savory marinara sauce, and layers of melted cheese – without the lengthy preparation or baking time.
Life can be incredibly hectic. Between managing kids, family responsibilities, and the general demands of daily life, it’s often tempting to resort to fast food for dinner. The convenience of a drive-thru often wins when everyone is hungry *now*, and you simply don’t have hours to spare in the kitchen. But what if there was a way to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal on those busy weeknights without the stress? This incredible Skillet Lasagna, a true one-pot pasta wonder, makes it entirely possible. Skip the drive-thru, gather your family around the table, and savor a warm, satisfying dinner that tastes like you spent all day making it, but only took minutes.
This super easy, family-favorite one-pan meal is a game-changer. It requires minimal preparation, cooks efficiently in a single large skillet, and is ready to serve in approximately 30 minutes. Imagine a delicious lasagna that fits perfectly into your busiest evenings – that’s the magic of this skillet version.
One-Pan Skillet Lasagna: The Ultimate Easy Dinner
The beauty of cooking everything in one pan isn’t just about speed; it also means significantly less cleanup. And let’s be honest, less washing up is always a win! From browning your ground meat to layering in your favorite marinara sauce, uncooked lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta, and a generous topping of melted Italian cheese – it all comes together in one skillet. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a complete, delicious meal that rivals traditional lasagna but without the fuss and multiple pots and pans. This truly is the perfect solution for a comforting, yet quick, Italian-inspired dinner.
If you’re as big a fan of one-pot meals as we are, you’ll love exploring other convenient options. Some of my personal favorites include a quick Pad Thai, creamy Instant Pot Fettuccine Alfredo, a hearty Skillet Tamale Pie, or even this healthy and simple Roasted Salmon Sheet Pan Meal. They all embody the spirit of easy cooking and minimal cleanup.
Effortless Lasagna, Cooked Perfectly in a Skillet
I first shared this fantastic recipe back in July 2017, just in time for National Lasagna Day. I wanted to find a way to celebrate this beloved dish without the usual kitchen marathon, and this skillet version was the perfect answer. It’s truly an ideal solution not just for those busy, rushed school nights we often try to deny are happening, but also for our precious weekends. Who wants to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen when you could be relaxing and enjoying your time off?
So, whether it’s a demanding Tuesday evening or a leisurely Saturday, this skillet lasagna is your go-to. Pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, quickly assemble this stovetop lasagna, and then sit back, relax, and relish a wonderful, homemade meal. It offers all the comforting flavors you crave from traditional lasagna but in a fraction of the time, making it an instant family favorite.
Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet Lasagna Recipe
Making this no-fuss lasagna recipe requires surprisingly simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. Often, the only item I don’t typically keep on hand is ricotta cheese. But don’t let that stop you! If you can’t make a trip to the store, you can easily omit it and add extra Italian blend cheese, plain mozzarella, or even substitute it with cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and reliance on everyday staples.
For the complete step-by-step instructions and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this easy skillet lasagna:
- Lean Ground Beef: This forms the hearty base of our skillet lasagna. While lean ground beef is a great choice, you can also opt for ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy) for an extra flavor kick, or even ground turkey for a lighter alternative. Ensure you brown it well to develop deep flavors.
- Onion: Half a chopped onion adds essential aromatic depth to the sauce. Fresh onion provides a much richer flavor than dried onion powder, which tends to be less potent. If fresh isn’t an option, 2 tablespoons of dry minced onion can work in a pinch, but avoid onion powder for this recipe.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that are crucial for balancing and enhancing all the flavors. Add them to taste; I typically start with a teaspoon of salt and a generous touch of freshly ground black pepper, adjusting as needed.
- Garlic: Three cloves of fresh minced garlic are highly recommended for their robust, pungent flavor that truly elevates the sauce. While garlic powder can be substituted, it won’t deliver the same intense, fresh taste.
- Italian-Style Diced Tomatoes: A whole can of these tomatoes, *undrained*, contributes acidity, sweetness, and chunky texture to the sauce. The liquid from the can is vital for cooking the lasagna noodles.
- Water: Simply fill the empty diced tomato can with water to ensure you have the perfect amount of liquid needed to cook the broken lasagna noodles to al dente perfection right in the skillet.
- Pasta Sauce: A 32 oz jar of your favorite pasta sauce is your shortcut to a rich, flavorful sauce. Marinara or a basic spaghetti sauce works wonderfully. If you only have plain tomato sauce, you can easily enhance it with some Italian seasoning. For a thicker sauce, a tablespoon of tomato paste can be stirred in. For those who love cooking from scratch, my simple Homemade Marinara Sauce recipe is a fantastic option.
- Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a classic lasagna texture and mild flavor. As mentioned, if ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese is an excellent substitute, or you can simply use extra Italian blend or mozzarella cheese.
- Italian Blend Cheese: A pre-shredded blend of Italian cheeses (like mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, and romano) offers convenience and a complex cheesy flavor. You can also create your own blend with fresh mozzarella and parmesan cheese, or any other melty cheeses you have on hand.
- Lasagna Noodles: The star of this quick version! You’ll need about 10 noodles, broken into manageable pieces. The best part? No need to boil them beforehand, unlike traditional baked lasagna. They cook directly in the sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil is added at the end for a burst of aromatic freshness and vibrant color, providing that authentic Italian finish.
Simple Steps to Make This Quick Skillet Lasagna Recipe
Creating this delicious one-pan lasagna is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, begin by browning your lean ground beef (or chosen ground meat) with the chopped onion, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the onion is softened. Once browned, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the undrained Italian-style diced tomatoes and the can of water, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 2: Add Noodles and Simmer. Next, arrange your uncooked lasagna noodles (broken into pieces) evenly over the ground beef mixture. Gently pour the entire jar of pasta sauce over the top, making sure the noodles are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat. The steam and liquid will work their magic to cook the pasta.
Step 3: Cook Until Al Dente. Continue to simmer, stirring periodically to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lasagna noodles are tender yet still have a slight bite (al dente). The sauce should also thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Italian cheese blend until it’s melted and thoroughly incorporated into the pasta mixture. This adds a wonderful creaminess and extra flavor throughout the dish.
Step 5: Final Cheese Layer and Serve. Top the lasagna with dollops of creamy ricotta cheese, then sprinkle the remaining shredded Italian cheese blend evenly over everything. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. This final touch creates that irresistible, gooey top layer characteristic of classic lasagna.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy. Garnish generously with fresh chopped basil for a vibrant finish and an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately while hot. This Skillet Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, like our refreshing Italian Bean Salad, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Love It? Pin It! Don’t Miss Out on This Easy Lasagna!
Once you try this incredible 30-minute Skillet Lasagna recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again! Don’t let yourself be sad when you can’t remember where you found this gem. Make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go. This way, you’ll always have this quick and delicious family-friendly meal at your fingertips!
Creative Ways to Use Up Leftover Lasagna Noodles
This skillet lasagna recipe is not only fantastic on its own, but it’s also an ingenious way to use up those few “leftover” lasagna noodles that always seem to remain in the box after you’ve made a traditional baked lasagna. It’s a common kitchen conundrum!
Whenever I make a classic lasagna, I inevitably end up with a couple of extra noodles. My solution is to toss them into a zip-top bag and save them specifically for making this wonderful stovetop lasagna, or for other creative dishes like my comforting Lasagna Soup, or the super fast Easy Weeknight Lasagna Toss. These recipes are perfect for ensuring no noodle goes to waste.
Alternatively, if you don’t have lasagna noodles or those specific leftovers, don’t hesitate to use any other type of pasta you have on hand. Shorter, sturdy pasta shapes like bow-tie (farfalle), penne, or rigatoni work beautifully and absorb the sauce just as well. We personally adore this recipe prepared with bow-tie pasta for a fun twist!
Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Lasagna
Here are some common questions and helpful answers regarding this easy skillet lasagna:
- How long does this skillet lasagna keep? When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this simple skillet lasagna will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. This makes it an ideal option for meal prepping and enjoying convenient reheated dinners throughout the week. If you find it a little dry when reheating, simply drizzle a touch of olive oil or a splash of water/broth over it to restore moisture.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This 30-minute skillet lasagna freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe, airtight container, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra sauce or water if needed.
- Can I use a different pasta? Yes, you certainly can! If you don’t have lasagna noodles, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes. Sturdy short pastas like bow-tie (farfalle), penne, rigatoni, or even large pasta shells are excellent choices. Keep in mind that different pasta shapes absorb liquid differently, so you may need to add an extra cup of water or broth to ensure they cook through properly. Adjust cooking time as necessary based on the pasta type.
- Can I make my own sauce? Definitely! While a good quality store-bought marinara sauce makes this recipe incredibly quick, don’t hesitate to use your favorite homemade sauce if you have one. Making your own sauce from scratch can add an extra layer of personal flavor.
- Can I cook this pot lasagna in a Dutch oven? Yes, a Dutch oven is an excellent alternative if you don’t have a large skillet on hand. Its heavy bottom and tight-fitting lid are perfect for simmering and ensure even cooking. However, if you’ve never experienced the ease of making lasagna in a skillet, I highly recommend giving it a try – there’s truly nothing simpler than a one-skillet lasagna!
Delicious Substitutions and Flavorful Additions
One of the best aspects of this skillet lasagna recipe is how adaptable it is! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some fantastic substitution and addition ideas to make this dish uniquely yours:
- Ground Meat Variations: Instead of lean ground beef, you can effortlessly use ground chicken, ground turkey, or Italian sausage (mild or hot) for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its own unique taste to the dish.
- Cheese Swaps: If you find yourself without ricotta cheese (or simply forgot it at the store!), creamy cottage cheese is an excellent, widely available substitute that provides a similar texture. For the Italian blend, feel free to use straight mozzarella, provolone, or a mix of parmesan and romano for a sharper flavor.
- Tomato Product Alternatives: Don’t have diced tomatoes? A combination of crushed tomatoes, plain tomato sauce, or even a tablespoon or two of tomato paste can be used to achieve the right consistency and flavor. The same flexibility applies to the marinara sauce – if you have a basic spaghetti sauce, use it! Enhance it with dried Italian spices like oregano, basil, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost. For a richer, meatier flavor, consider using a bolognese sauce.
- Pasta Creativity: For a fun and convenient twist, try making “ravioli lasagna” by substituting cheese or meat-stuffed ravioli for the broken lasagna noodles. This adds an extra layer of deliciousness and makes the dish even easier to prepare. Remember to adjust liquid if using fresh ravioli as it cooks faster.
- Vegetable Boost: My personal preference for adding more nutrients and flavor is to include roasted bell peppers into this one-pan lasagna. Sautéing them with the onions and ground beef will add a wonderful sweetness and vibrant color. You could also stir in fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth.
More Easy Weeknight Meals to Love
My website is packed with wholesome, delicious recipes designed to make weeknight dinners simple and stress-free! If you enjoyed the convenience and flavor of this skillet lasagna, you’ll definitely want to try some of these other family-friendly options:
- Stuffed Pepper Skillet (pictured above) – All the flavors of stuffed peppers, made easy in one pan.
- Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak – A healthier take on a comfort food classic, made quick in your air fryer.
- Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet – Enjoy the traditional taste of cabbage rolls without all the rolling and fuss.
- Easy Sweet & Sour Chicken – A delicious homemade version that rivals your favorite takeout.
- Chili Mac Skillet – The ultimate comfort food combo of chili and macaroni, all in one pan.
- 5 Ingredient Chicken Parmesan Bake – A ridiculously simple recipe for a classic Italian favorite.
This skillet lasagna is truly a fantastic recipe and a complete meal that comes together in significantly less time than traditional oven-baked lasagna. It’s perfect for feeding the entire family, offering hearty comfort without the hours typically spent in the kitchen. We especially love to enjoy it with some warm homemade garlic bread on the side, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that savory sauce. Enjoy this delightful, easy casserole dish that proves you don’t need a lengthy bake to achieve amazing flavor!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Skillet Lasagna
Equipment
-
Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (or ground Italian sausage or turkey)
- 1/2 cup onion chopped (or sub 2 Tablespoons dry minced onion for convenience)
- Salt & Pepper to taste (approx. 1 tsp salt, generous black pepper)
- 3 cloves garlic minced (fresh provides best flavor)
- 1 14.5 ounce can Italian-style diced tomatoes, UNdrained
- 1 can water (use the empty diced tomato can for measurement)
- 1 32 ounce jar pasta sauce (marinara or your favorite spaghetti sauce)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for substitution)
- 2 cups Shredded Italian blend cheese (such as mozzarella, provolone, parmesan)
- 10 lasagna noodles broken into pieces (no need to boil!)
- Fresh basil chopped, to taste (for garnish)
Instructions
-
In a large, sturdy skillet, brown the lean ground beef (or chosen meat) with the chopped onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the meat is fully browned and the onion softened, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes and the measured water. Give the mixture a good stir to combine all ingredients.
-
Carefully place the broken uncooked lasagna noodles evenly over the ground beef mixture in the skillet. Pour the entire jar of pasta sauce over the top, ensuring the noodles are mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Continue to cook, stirring periodically to prevent the noodles from sticking and to ensure they cook evenly. Cook until the noodles are tender and al dente, which typically takes about 20 minutes.
-
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Italian cheese blend until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the rich pasta and meat sauce.
-
Top the skillet lasagna with dollops of creamy ricotta cheese, then sprinkle the remaining shredded Italian cheese evenly over the surface. Cover the skillet again and let it stand for approximately 3 minutes, or until the cheeses are perfectly melted and bubbly.
-
Garnish generously with fresh chopped basil for a bright, aromatic finish. Serve your hot, delicious Skillet Lasagna immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on July 27, 2017. It has been updated to improve user experience and re-shared on February 1, 2023.
