This cozy, cheesy skillet lasagna is everything you love about the classic Italian dish—but made easy in just one pan! With tender noodles, hearty beef, melty mozzarella, and a rich tomato-basil sauce, this simplified recipe is perfect for busy nights when you’re craving comfort food without the fuss of layering a full casserole. Ready in under an hour and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser your whole family will love.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
- Serve with a simple green salad for a full meal.
- This dish also reheats beautifully for leftovers the next day!
Storage & Freezing
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Lasagna
- All the lasagna flavor, none of the fuss – no oven, no long layering process!
- One pan = less cleanup – perfect for busy weeknights or small kitchens.
- Customizable – add veggies, swap cheeses, or make it spicy!
- Family favorite – cheesy, hearty, and always a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace the ground beef.
- Jarred marinara or tomato basil sauce works if you don’t have mushroom sauce.
- Add ricotta cheese in between layers for a more traditional flavor.
- Use frozen chopped onions or peppers for a quick-prep shortcut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat in this skillet lasagna?
Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to drain any excess grease before adding your sauce.
Can I use oven-ready or no-boil noodles?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the sauce by ½ to 1 cup to help soften the noodles properly. Simmer the dish a little longer and make sure the noodles are fully tender before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the lasagna in the skillet, then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, covered, over low heat until hot throughout.
Can I freeze skillet lasagna?
Yes. Allow it to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap individual servings in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
What kind of pan should I use?
A deep, nonstick or cast iron skillet works best. Make sure it has a lid or use foil to cover it while cooking.
What vegetables can I add?
You can easily sneak in extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or shredded carrots. Just sauté them with the onions and green peppers before adding the sauce.
One-Pan Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and green pepper until meat is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the jar of spaghetti sauce, oregano, and basil. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
- In a separate pot, boil the lasagna noodles until fully cooked and tender. Drain and rinse with cool water. Cut noodles in half if needed to fit your skillet.
- Spoon ¼ cup of the meat sauce into the bottom of the skillet. Add 3 noodles across the top. Spread half of the remaining sauce over noodles, then sprinkle with half the mozzarella and half the Parmesan.
- Add the remaining 3 noodles, the rest of the meat sauce, and a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Cover and heat on medium for 3 minutes, then reduce to low and cook for 35 minutes covered.
- After 35 minutes, uncover and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover again loosely and let rest 10 minutes off heat before serving. Optional: sprinkle extra Parmesan and dried basil on top before serving.
Notes
Recipe Notes
- Time Saver Tip: You can cook and drain your noodles while your sauce is simmering to save time.
- Cheese Variations: Add ricotta or cottage cheese between the layers for extra creaminess.
- Make Ahead: Prepare and layer ahead of time, then reheat gently in the skillet for dinner.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and nutrients.
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