Irresistible Skillet Lasagna: Comfort Food Delight

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bubbling skillet lasagna, its layers of gooey cheese and rich meat sauce beckoning like an old friend. Picture this: every forkful delivers the satisfying crunch of golden edges, mingling with the velvety pasta and robust flavors that dance across your palate. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around you like a warm hug, perfect for cozy nights in or cheerful gatherings.

Thinking back to my first attempt at making skillet lasagna, I can still hear my family’s delighted reactions as they dug in. The aroma wafted through the house, pulling everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame, eager to indulge in this delightful creation. Perfect for game nights or family dinners, this dish promises not just nourishment but a wonderful experience filled with laughter and joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This skillet lasagna is incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in just one pan for simple cleanup
  • Bursting with flavor from seasoned meat and melty cheese, it pleases all taste buds
  • The vibrant layers make it visually appealing for any dining table
  • Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand

I remember the time I made this for a potluck, and my friends fought over the last piece.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Lasagna Noodles: Opt for no-boil noodles if you’re looking to save time without compromising texture.

  • Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

  • Crushed Tomatoes: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes; they add depth and freshness to your sauce.

  • Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; be sure to chop it finely for even cooking.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish with aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on it!

  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella creates that stretchy goodness we all crave in lasagna; use fresh if possible.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty finish; use it generously on top before broiling.

  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil gives the sauce its signature Italian flair.

  • Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps sautΓ© vegetables and adds richness.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first: get that skillet ready!

Prep Your Skillet: Heat your large skillet over medium heat while you chop your onion and garlic. Add a splash of olive oil once it’s warm.

SautΓ© Aromatics: Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic once the oil shimmers. Cook until fragrant and translucentβ€”about 3-4 minutesβ€”stirring occasionally.

Add Ground Beef : Crumble in the ground beef, stirring frequently until browned and cooked throughβ€”about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Create Your Sauce : Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well, allowing everything to simmer together for about 10 minutes until thickened.

Add Lasagna Noodles : Break up your no-boil lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir them into the sauce mixture until fully submerged.

Crown It With Cheese : Once everything is combined well, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. You can add freshly grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness!

Bake & Broil : Cover your skillet with a lid or foil (if oven-safe), then bake at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 25 minutes. Remove cover and broil for an additional 5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Serve hot straight from the skillet! Letting it sit for a few minutes before serving makes slicing easier.

And there you have itβ€”a stunningly simple yet delicious skillet lasagna that promises warmth not just on your plate but in your heart too!

You Must Know

  • Skillet lasagna is a one-pan wonder that saves time and cleanup
  • The layers meld together beautifully, creating a cheesy, hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknights
  • Plus, you can customize it based on your fridge finds, making it flavorful and fun every time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat in your skillet, then layer in your noodles and sauce simultaneously for even cooking. This method ensures everything combines perfectly while saving you from washing extra pots.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. These tweaks keep the dish fresh and exciting, giving each bite a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover skillet lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged
  • Be careful not to overcook the noodles; they should remain slightly firm
  • If you want more spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce

Cooking this skillet lasagna always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaits the first bite; it’s simply unbeatable comfort food.

FAQ

Can I make skillet lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead, then store it covered in the fridge until ready to cook.

What type of noodles should I use for skillet lasagna?

Use no-boil lasagna noodles for best results; they cook perfectly while absorbing flavors.

Is it possible to freeze skillet lasagna?

Absolutely! Freeze individual portions for quick meals later; just reheat directly from frozen.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Skillet Lasagna


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Skillet lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, combining gooey cheese, seasoned ground beef, and tender pasta layered in a bubbling skillet. This one-pan wonder is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, this dish will quickly become a household favorite that warms both your heart and your stomach.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 oz no-boil lasagna noodles
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil.
  2. SautΓ© chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Crumble in the ground beef; cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. Break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir them into the sauce until fully submerged.
  6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top; add Parmesan if desired.
  7. Cover and bake at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 25 minutes; uncover and broil for an additional 5 minutes until bubbly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 290g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Customize by adding spinach or zucchini for extra veggies. Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a different flavor profile. For meal prep, assemble ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating β˜…β˜† β˜…β˜† β˜…β˜† β˜…β˜† β˜…β˜†