This Skillet Lasagna is a comforting twist on a classic favorite. Combining the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef and sausage with a rich tomato sauce, this dish is made complete by creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked Campanelle pasta. The oven-baked finish gives it a delightful cheesy crust that’s irresistible. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this one-skillet meal delivers all the satisfaction of traditional lasagna without the hassle of layering. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for an easy and delicious meal that everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ lb. ground beef
- ½ lb. ground sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 16 oz. tomato sauce
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 ½ cups fresh low-moisture mozzarella, shredded
- ½ pound Campanelle pasta (or substitute Bowtie or Penne)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 500°F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef and sausage. Add onions midway through cooking and sauté until softened. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add salt, oregano, basil, tomato paste, and flour. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Pour in beef broth and deglaze the skillet, scraping the bottom and sides with a spatula. Stir in tomato sauce, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Mix ricotta cheese into the sauce and let it simmer gently.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat pasta in the sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
(If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish before baking.) - Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm, ideally with garlic bread.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 532 per serving | Servings: 4
Skillet Lasagna: A One-Pot Wonder for Comfort Food Lovers
When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, lasagna sits high on the list of timeless classics. Its layers of rich sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta create a symphony of flavors that warm both body and soul. But let’s face it traditional lasagna can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. That’s where skillet lasagna steps in, offering all the indulgent flavors of the classic dish in a simplified, one-pot version that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The Appeal of Skillet Lasagna
Skillet lasagna takes everything you love about the traditional baked dish and transforms it into an easier, faster alternative. By deconstructing the layers and cooking everything together in one pan, you save time without sacrificing flavor. The beauty of this method lies in its versatility and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, skillet lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal cleanup and effort.
One of the standout features of skillet lasagna is its ability to adapt to personal preferences and dietary needs. You can customize the protein by using ground beef, sausage, or even turkey. For vegetarians, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach make excellent substitutes. You can also switch up the type of pasta, opting for bowtie, penne, or even rotini, depending on what you have on hand.
Why Skillet Lasagna Works
The genius of skillet lasagna lies in its cooking technique. By browning the meat and aromatics first, you build a flavorful base that permeates the dish. The addition of tomato paste, herbs, and broth creates a rich, savory sauce that clings to the pasta as it cooks. The ricotta and mozzarella add layers of creaminess, while the oven finish gives it a satisfying cheesy crust. This combination of stove-top and oven cooking results in a dish that’s perfectly balanced comforting yet not overly heavy.
A Modern Take on a Classic
While traditional lasagna involves intricate layering and a long baking process, skillet lasagna embraces simplicity without compromising on taste. It’s an ideal solution for home cooks who love the flavors of lasagna but want to skip the tedious assembly process. The use of a skillet also allows for even cooking and caramelization, which enhances the overall flavor profile.
For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, skillet lasagna is a fantastic canvas. You can add your favorite seasonings, incorporate different cheeses like Parmesan or provolone, or toss in extra vegetables for added nutrition. The possibilities are endless, making it a dish you can reinvent time and time again.
Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet Lasagna
While skillet lasagna is straightforward, a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this dish relies on a few key components, using high-quality meats, cheeses, and tomato sauce can make a noticeable difference.
- Balance the Cheese: The combination of ricotta and mozzarella is classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other varieties to find your perfect blend.
- Cook Pasta Just Right: Avoid overcooking the pasta before adding it to the skillet. It will continue to absorb the sauce’s flavors as it bakes.
- Finish in the Oven: The final oven step is crucial for achieving that bubbly, golden cheese layer that makes lasagna so irresistible. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
Pairing Suggestions
Skillet lasagna pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, while garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a bowl of minestrone soup.
Why Families Love Skillet Lasagna
This dish has become a favorite among families for several reasons. Its quick preparation means you can whip it up even on a hectic weeknight. The one-pan method minimizes dishes, making cleanup a breeze an appealing factor for busy parents. Plus, its cheesy, saucy goodness appeals to picky eaters and foodies alike.
Another reason skillet lasagna stands out is its ability to feed a crowd. The hearty combination of meat, cheese, and pasta is both satisfying and budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for gatherings or potluck dinners.
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
While skillet lasagna is ideal for casual dinners, it also has a touch of elegance that makes it suitable for special occasions. Its rustic presentation, with melted cheese and parsley garnish, adds a homely yet refined touch to the table. Serve it with a good bottle of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, for a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about skillet lasagna is how well it stores. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop the entire skillet back in the oven for a few minutes. The flavors often deepen over time, making the leftovers just as delicious as the freshly prepared dish.
Conclusion:
Skillet lasagna proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a comforting, satisfying meal. Its rich flavors, easy preparation, and endless adaptability make it a standout recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or simply craving a bowl of cheesy pasta, skillet lasagna delivers every time.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for lasagna but don’t want to deal with the layers and long bake times, grab your skillet and give this recipe a try. It’s comfort food at its finest, served up in a fraction of the time.
