My easy Skillet Lasagna isn’t just another one-pan recipe, it’s truly the best lasagna you’ll ever make. Unlike traditional lasagna recipes, mine doesn’t involve tedious layering and multiple dishes. My skillet version combines perfectly seasoned lean ground beef, creamy ricotta mixture, tender bowtie pasta, and marinara sauce all in one pan. With a few minutes of prep and all those classic Italian flavors, this delicious skillet lasagna is guaranteed to become your new favorite comfort food.
Skillet Lasagna Recipe
This rich and hearty Skillet Lasagna is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights because it delivers all the classic lasagna flavors without hours of prep. Instead of dealing with broken lasagna noodles and multiple pans, I simplify things by using bowtie pasta cooked directly in a large skillet with the other ingredients. That means you are left with fewer dishes to wash after dinner. But that’s not the only reason my lasagna is so good. I made sure that the sauce was perfectly seasoned, savory, and thick enough to coat every bite of pasta, giving you that homemade taste everyone craves.
The ricotta cheese mixture combined with parmesan and egg creates a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the marinara for rich, cheesy layers in every bite. This easy Skillet Lasagna recipe gives you all the authentic Italian lasagna goodness without the fuss of traditional recipes and I think my recipe nails it. Each bite is loaded with tender pasta, creamy ricotta, Italian seasoning, and plenty of rich marinara sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy, perfect for feeding the whole family any night of the week.
For more lasagna recipes, check out this Classic Italian Lasagna or this easy Lasagna Soup.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Easiest lasagna you’ll ever make – You can forget complicated layering and extra pans, this skillet lasagna is a true one-pan wonder that gives you classic lasagna taste much easier. Ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-infused pasta: By cooking the bowtie pasta directly in marinara sauce, each bite is infused with authentic Italian flavor. It’s much more flavorful than just boiling the pasta first, like other recipes.
- Unmatched creamy consistency: The ricotta mixture, blended perfectly with parmesan and egg, melts right into the dish, creating a creamy, rich texture that’s way better than your average lasagna.
Ingredients to Make This Lasagna Recipe
Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe. Scroll down to the full recipe card for the specific amounts.
- Ground beef – Perfect for creating a hearty lasagna.
- Seasonings – I used a simple combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Marinara sauce – You can use this Homemade Marinara or buy it.
- Bowtie pasta – Shorter pasta makes this lasagna super easy.
- Water – Helps cook pasta directly in sauce.
- Ricotta cheese – Key for creamy cheese layers.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, savory flavor.
- Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
- Fresh parsley, roughly chopped – Optional garnish, fresh flavor.
How to Make One-Pan Skillet Lasagna
- Add ground beef to a large high-sided sauté pan, and cook over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled.
- Drain beef and return to skillet. Season beef with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Pour in marinara sauce, bowtie pasta, and water. Stir well, bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 17-20 minutes until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and egg together until creamy and smooth.
- Add the ricotta mixture to the pasta in the skillet, stirring to thoroughly combine.
- Cook an additional 5 minutes on medium-low heat, allowing the cheese mixture to set.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) before serving.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooled skillet lasagna in a sealed airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips
- If using lean ground beef you may want to add a little olive oil to the pan first to help keep the beef juicy.
- Give the pasta mixture a good stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; garlic powder and onion powder are essential for deep flavor.
- If you prefer more sauce, add a little water or some beef broth during cooking.
- Use a large, deep skillet, cast-iron skillet or even dutch oven that will easily hold ingredients and prevent it from overflowing..
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy consistency.
Variations
- Cheese – Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese for extra cheesiness.
- Meat – Substitute lean ground beef with Italian sausage or ground chicken for a flavor twist.
- Spice – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Veggies – Toss in cooked bell peppers or remaining vegetables from last night’s dinner.
- Ricotta – Use cottage cheese as an alternative to ricotta cheese for a slightly different, creamier texture.
- Extra tomato – Stir in tomato paste or extra tomato sauce for a richer sauce base.
- Fresh herbs – Include fresh basil or other fresh herbs for enhanced Italian flavors.
FAQs
Yes, break half of the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and cook directly in the skillet, adjusting cook time slightly as needed.
You likely used too much water or didn’t allow enough liquid to boil off. Try reducing the water next time.
Substitute the beef with mushrooms or cooked bell peppers and other veggies, increasing the sauce slightly.
Ensure frequent stirring and use a good-quality skillet with a non-stick surface or seasoned cast-iron skillet.
More Great Dinner Recipes
- Taco Pasta
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 teaspoons Garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 24 ounces pasta sauce
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Fresh parsley roughly chopped, optional
Instructions
- Add beef to a large skillet, and cook and chop until browned.1 pound ground beef
- Drain beef and return to the pan.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pasta sauce, pasta, and water. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 17-20 minutes, until pasta is just turning al dente.2 teaspoons Garlic powder, 2 teaspoons Onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 24 ounces pasta sauce, 2 cups water, 12 ounces bowtie pasta
- In a bowl, mix together ricotta, parmesan, and egg.½ cup ricotta cheese, ½ cup parmesan cheese, 1 egg
- Add cheese mixture to pasta mixture, and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes more, to allow the cheese to set.
- Top with fresh parsley, if desired.Fresh parsley
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