Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner solution that captures the essence of lasagna without all the hassle? Look no further than this delightful Lazy Lasagna Skillet recipe! When the craving for classic lasagna strikes but time is of the essence, this one-pan wonder comes to the rescue. By simply tossing all the ingredients into a skillet and letting the flavors meld together effortlessly, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.

I stumbled upon this Lazy Lasagna Skillet creation during one of those chaotic evenings when dinner needed to happen fast. The aroma wafting through my kitchen was so inviting that even my neighbor couldn’t resist joining us for dinner. The best part? This dish garnered rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters at the table! With perfectly cooked pasta nestled in a rich and savory sauce, topped with layers of cheesy goodness, every bite is a comforting reminder of traditional lasagna, but with a fraction of the effort.

Don’t stress over layering noodles or long baking times – this Lazy Lasagna Skillet simplifies the process without compromising on taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, like using different proteins or adding veggies, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a satisfying meal that promises all the flavors of lasagna with none of the fuss.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy one-skillet meal
• Minimal cleanup due to cooking everything in one pan
• Versatile – can use different pasta shapes and protein options
• Great for meal prep as it reheats well and flavors meld together

Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for when you’re craving lasagna but short on time – no need to layer noodles or bake for an hour.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and ideal for busy evenings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters love this dish – it tastes like “real lasagna” despite the unique presentation.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with different pasta shapes, meat choices, or additional veggies for variety.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for a few days and reheats beautifully, allowing flavors to develop.
• Family Favorite: A go-to recipe for busy weeknights, providing the comforting flavors of lasagna without the hassle.

Ingredients for Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce

Cheeses

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Garnish

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Dried parsley flakes for garnish
• 1 teaspoon paprika

How to Make Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rigatoni pasta until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside, ensuring not to overcook as it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, and break up the meat as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Garlic

After cooking the beef, discard any extra grease. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the entire jar of marinara sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce in the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly and distribute the ingredients throughout the pan.

Step 5: Add the Ricotta

Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the skillet, ensuring each bite has cheese. Do not stir, allow the dollops to remain on top.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Evenly distribute mozzarella cheese on top of the skillet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and dried parsley, then serve hot.

Storage Tips

After making the Lazy Lasagna Skillet, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. When reheating, you may notice that the pasta has absorbed more sauce, making it appear slightly drier. Despite this, the flavors continue to meld together, potentially enhancing the taste even further. Simply reheat the dish in the microwave until warmed through for a quick and convenient meal option.

To ensure the best quality when enjoying the leftovers, it’s important to store the Lazy Lasagna Skillet properly. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any odors from affecting the dish and to maintain its freshness. Additionally, consider adding a splash of water or extra sauce when reheating to help moisten the pasta and restore some of its original texture. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can continue to enjoy the delicious flavors of the Lazy Lasagna Skillet even after the initial meal has been served.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in this Lazy Lasagna Skillet recipe, you can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. These alternatives can bring a unique twist to the dish while still maintaining the heartiness of the original recipe.

If you don’t have rigatoni pasta on hand, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini as suggested in the article. Different pasta shapes can still hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture to the dish.

To sneak in some extra vegetables, consider adding spinach or mushrooms to the skillet. These additions can introduce more nutrients and flavors to the dish without compromising the overall taste. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lazy Lasagna Skillet straight from the pan, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley flakes for a pop of color. To elevate the dish, consider adding a dollop of creamy burrata cheese on top before serving for an indulgent touch that will melt into the hot pasta and sauce. Pair it with a side of garlic breadsticks for dipping into the rich sauce and a crisp Caesar salad to round out the meal with some freshness and crunch.

For a fun twist, try layering the Lazy Lasagna Skillet between slices of garlic bread to create a lasagna grilled cheese sandwich. Simply sandwich a generous portion of the skillet mixture between two slices of garlic bread, grill until golden and crispy on both sides, and slice into handheld portions for a creative and delicious meal that combines the best of both worlds – lasagna and grilled cheese.

FAQs for Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different pasta shapes like penne or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta shape.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef to add different flavors to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the meat you choose.

How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the skillet lasagna?

To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it just until al dente as it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce. Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it can lead to a mushy texture in the final dish.

Can I add extra vegetables to this skillet lasagna?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to sneak in some extra nutrients and flavors without significantly changing the taste of the dish. Just ensure that the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness before serving.

Conclusion

Lazy Lasagna Skillet is truly a game-changer when it comes to satisfying those lasagna cravings without the hassle of traditional layering and baking. It’s amazing how a simple one-pan meal can bring so much comfort and joy to the dinner table. The flexibility of this recipe allows for personal touches and adaptations, making it a versatile dish that can easily fit into any family’s meal planning.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner option or a busy parent in need of a satisfying meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters, Lazy Lasagna Skillet is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The aroma of the bubbling sauce, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta will beckon everyone to the table, creating moments of togetherness and contentment.

So, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of Lazy Lasagna Skillet and experience the convenience and comfort it brings to your home. With its rich flavors, simple preparation, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is a true winner for any day of the week. Enjoy the magic of lasagna in a skillet and savor every bite of this delightful dish!

Easy One-Pan Skillet Lasagna

“Easy skillet lasagna with ground beef, ricotta, and gooey cheese, a quick fix for lasagna cravings minus the hassle of layering noodles and long bake times.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineItalian

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (6 generous servings)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce

Cheeses

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Garnish

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Dried parsley flakes for garnish
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook rigatoni pasta until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside, ensuring not to overcook as it will finish cooking in the oven.
2. Brown the Beef: Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, and break up the meat as it cooks.
3. Add Sauce and Garlic: After cooking the beef, discard any extra grease. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the entire jar of marinara sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine with Pasta: Combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce in the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly and distribute the ingredients throughout the pan.
5. Add the Ricotta: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the skillet, ensuring each bite has cheese. Do not stir, allow the dollops to remain on top.
6. Top and Bake: Evenly distribute mozzarella cheese on top of the skillet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and dried parsley, then serve hot.