Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, this easy one-skillet lasagna is the perfect dish. With layers of rich flavors from ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, it’s a delightful take on a classic. This recipe simplifies the preparation while still delivering the deliciousness that traditional lasagna is known for, all in a fraction of the time and using fewer dishes.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef
½ onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups marinara sauce
3 fresh basil leaves (optional)
2 cups chicken broth (or water/vegetable broth)
8 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-3 inch pieces
¾ cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup Parmesan cheese
1 egg
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup mozzarella cheese
Basil and parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This one-skillet lasagna is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that your family will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion halfway through and continue cooking until the onion is softened and the beef is fully cooked. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds.
2. Add Marinara Sauce and Broth
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the salt, marinara sauce, basil leaves, and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.
3. Incorporate Lasagna Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
4. Cook the Mixture
Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the noodles are just al dente, approximately 20 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as they will continue to soften during the broiling step.
5. Prepare Ricotta Mixture
While the noodles are simmering, prepare the ricotta mixture by combining the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
6. Add Ricotta to Noodles
Once the noodles are cooked, uncover the skillet and spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the top. Gently press the dollops into the lasagna to distribute.
7. Broil the Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the skillet under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the broiler. Garnish with additional basil and parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option. Vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Storage Recommendations
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Times
Cooking times may vary depending on the type of lasagna noodles used. Check the package instructions for specific cooking recommendations.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Browning Ground Beef
Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is browned. This step is crucial for developing flavor and ensuring the meat is safely cooked.
Cooking Onions and Garlic
Add diced onions halfway through cooking the ground beef. This allows them to soften and enhance the overall flavor. Stir in minced garlic towards the end for a fresher taste without burning it.
Simmering the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium and add marinara sauce, basil leaves, and chicken broth. This simmering step combines flavors and creates a rich sauce for the lasagna noodles.
Cooking Lasagna Noodles
Add broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, making sure they are submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer until noodles are al dente, which ensures they won’t overcook during subsequent steps.
Preparing the Ricotta Mixture
Combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well to create a creamy filling that adds richness to the dish.
Dolloping Ricotta Mixture
Once noodles are cooked, spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the noodles and gently press to distribute. This ensures even flavoring and creaminess throughout the dish.
Broiling for Cheese Finish
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and place under the broiler. Watch closely for about 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, adding texture and a delicious crust to the dish.
Garnishing
After removing from the broiler, consider garnishing with fresh basil and parsley. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and taste.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute different cheeses based on your preference, such as using cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based sauce or make a simple sauce with crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before broiling the cheese. Just broil right before serving.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
What can I serve with this dish?
This lasagna can be served with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The one-skillet lasagna is a deliciously convenient dish that combines the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna with a quick and easy preparation method. The use of the skillet allows for a full, rich flavor in a fraction of the time, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Lasagna
Swap out the ground beef for a mix of sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
Italian Sausage Skillet
Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier twist and more robust flavor in your lasagna.
Pesto Chicken Lasagna
Use shredded cooked chicken and mix in pesto for an aromatic variation that complements the marinara sauce nicely.
Mexican Lasagna
Layer in some black beans, corn, and salsa instead of marinara, and top with pepper jack cheese for a Mexican-inspired spin.
Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Filling
Enhance the ricotta filling by mixing in a blend of sautéed spinach and additional cheeses like feta or mozzarella for extra richness.
Gluten-Free Lasagna
Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining all the flavor.
Lasagna Roll-ups
Use cooked lasagna noodles to create roll-ups filled with the ricotta mixture, then bake in marinara sauce for an appealing presentation.
