Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that brings the comfort of lasagna without the fuss of layering, this quick and easy Skillet Lasagna is your answer. Featuring lean ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese, this dish has all the flavors you love, packed into one skillet and ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s sure to please both family and friends alike.
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: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This Skillet Lasagna can easily become a weeknight favorite with its simplicity and satisfying flavors. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
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.
Combine Ingredients in the Skillet
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the salt, marinara sauce, basil leaves, and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Add the Broken Lasagna Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
Simmer 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.
Prepare the 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. Stir until well blended.
Distribute the Ricotta Mixture
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 the mixture.
Add the Mozzarella Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Broil the Lasagna
Place the skillet under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the broiler. Garnish with additional basil and parsley if desired.
Notes
Use Lean Ground Beef
Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease in the sauce.
Storage Instructions
Leftover Skillet Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Cooking Ground Beef
Begin by browning lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This helps to develop a rich flavor and ensures even cooking. Adding diced onion halfway through enhances the flavor profile as the onions soften and blend with the beef.
Garlic Infusion
Minced garlic should be added to the skillet after the beef and onions are cooked. Sautéing garlic for about 60 seconds ensures its flavor releases fully without burning.
Building the Sauce
Combine marinara sauce, fresh basil leaves, and chicken broth into the skillet after sautéing the garlic. This creates a flavorful sauce base for the noodles.
Cooking Lasagna Noodles
When adding broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, make sure they are submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer to cook the noodles al dente, ensuring they don’t become overcooked.
Preparing Ricotta Mixture
For a creamy layer, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and black pepper in a bowl. Ensure this mixture is well blended for uniform distribution over the lasagna.
Broiling for Finish
After cooking, spoon the ricotta mixture over the noodles and top with mozzarella cheese. Broil for approximately 5 minutes, checking regularly to achieve a bubbly, golden-brown cheese topping without burning.
Garnishing
Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh basil and parsley, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian alternatives.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to broil the cheese topping.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or water can be used as substitutes for chicken broth.
Is it necessary to use fresh basil?
While fresh basil adds flavor, dried basil can be used as an alternative if fresh isn’t available.
What should I do if the noodles are overcooked?
If the noodles are overcooked, they may not hold their shape well. You can still enjoy the dish, but it’s best to monitor cooking closely to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
Conclusion
This delicious skillet lasagna is a convenient and satisfying meal, bringing together the heartiness of lean ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, all in one pan. The combination of flavors and textures makes it perfect for family dinners, and the ease of preparation allows for a stress-free cooking experience. Enjoy it fresh from the skillet or store leftovers for a quick meal later on.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna
Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a wholesome vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth and add extra layers of your favorite vegetables.
Cheesy Chicken Skillet Lasagna
Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken. Mix in some pesto sauce for added flavor and use chicken broth as the liquid base.
Spicy Sausage Skillet Lasagna
Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier kick. Add red pepper flakes and bell peppers to enhance the flavor profile.
Mexican Lasagna
Incorporate taco seasoning and use black beans in place of beef. Substitute marinara with salsa, and top with Mexican cheese blend for a twist on traditional lasagna.
Pesto Skillet Lasagna
Stir in basil pesto into the marinara sauce, and add sun-dried tomatoes for an additional burst of flavor. Use ricotta and mozzarella for a creamy texture.
Seafood Skillet Lasagna
Combine shrimp and crab meat for a rich seafood alternative. Use a white sauce or a tomato cream sauce to complement the seafood flavors.
