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Skillet Lasagna Recipe

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3.8 from 30 reviews

This Skillet Lasagna is a quick and hearty one-pan meal combining ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and bite-sized pasta, all cooked together in a skillet and finished with a blend of cheeses and fresh basil for a flavorful twist on traditional lasagna.

Ingredients

Meat and Oil

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
  • 24 ounces pasta sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Pasta and Liquids

  • 8 ounces bite-size pasta (penne, rigatoni, or farfalle)
  • 1 1/2 cups water

Cheeses and Garnish

  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2-3 Tablespoons fresh basil leaves, for topping

Instructions

  1. Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season it with salt and black pepper. Brown the meat thoroughly until no longer pink, then remove some of the excess grease from the skillet.
  2. Finish Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic, dried minced onion, pasta sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well to combine all ingredients.
  3. Add Pasta and Simmer: Bring the sauce mixture to a simmer. Stir in the bite-sized pasta and water, then bring to a boil. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 13 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
  4. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and evenly incorporated. Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese on top, then cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheeses to warm thoroughly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Using bite-sized pasta ensures even cooking and better absorption of the sauce.
  • Covering the skillet during the cheese warming step helps melt the cheese without overcooking the pasta.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.