Lasagna has always meant comfort in our home — but not every night comes with the time to layer and bake. Growing up in Italy, Sunday lasagna was a labor of love, made with slow-simmered sauce and plenty of hands helping in the kitchen. Now, with four kids and a busy schedule in Boston, I’ve learned to recreate that same comfort in a much simpler way.
This Easy Skillet Lasagna is my weeknight solution. One pan, no layering, and no need to boil noodles. Just all the rich, cheesy, saucy goodness you expect — made in a fraction of the time. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, no questions asked.
Recipe Overview
A Family Tradition Reinvented
Growing up in an Italian household, lasagna was a staple at family gatherings. I fondly remember my grandmother spending hours layering pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses to perfection. While nothing beats Nonna’s traditional lasagna, modern life often calls for quicker solutions. This skillet version captures the essence of her recipe but simplifies the process, making it accessible for any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty base. You can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic richness.
- 2 (14-ounce) cans beef broth: Serves as the cooking liquid for the pasta, imparting a robust flavor.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can Italian diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and texture.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil to enhance the Italian flavors.
- 2 cups uncooked Mafalda pasta: These mini lasagna noodles are ideal, but rotini or penne work well too.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the dish. Feel free to add more if desired.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, for garnish.
Note: Mafalda pasta resembles miniature lasagna noodles, making it perfect for this dish. If unavailable, rotini or penne are excellent substitutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Incorporate Liquids and Seasoning: Stir in the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Pasta: Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for 12-14 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Melt in the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid absorbed, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad and garlic bread.
Tips for a Perfect Skillet Lasagna
- Meat Variations: Ground sausage or turkey can be used in place of beef for a different flavor and lighter option.
- Spice Level: For those who enjoy a kick, adding red pepper flakes during the seasoning step can elevate the heat.
- Creaminess: A dollop of ricotta cheese added before serving can mimic the traditional lasagna’s creamy layers.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the skillet sit uncovered for a few minutes after cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
- Quick Preparation: From start to finish, this dish can be ready in about 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a versatile meal option.
- Leftover Potential: This lasagna reheats well, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.
Serving Suggestions
To complete the meal, consider serving the skillet lasagna with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce.
- Caesar Salad: The crispness and acidity balance the richness of the lasagna.
- Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
Making This Skillet Lasagna Tonight!
This Easy Skillet Lasagna brings the heartiness and comfort of traditional lasagna to your table with a fraction of the effort. It’s a testament to how classic dishes can be adapted to fit our modern, busy lives without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
Easy Skillet Lasagna – One-Pan Comfort Food for Busy Nights
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes450
kcalIngredients
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans beef broth
1 can Italian diced tomatoes (undrained)
¼ tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups uncooked Mafalda pasta (or rotini/penne)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Directions
- Brown the meat – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
- Add liquids and seasoning – Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the pasta – Add uncooked pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 12-14 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally.
- Melt the cheese – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, cover again, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve – Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve warm.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
For a creamier texture, dollop ricotta cheese before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. - Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate):
Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
Sodium: 780mg
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