Why Make This Recipe
Skillet lasagna is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic Italian dish without the fuss of layering and baking in the oven. It combines the rich flavors of beef, marinara sauce, and cheese, all while making a quick and hearty meal in one pan. This recipe is not only delicious but also practical for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet effortless. The combination of noodles cooked directly in the skillet with fresh spinach adds a nutritious twist, making it a well-rounded meal.
How to Make Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef until it is browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes.
Prepare the Noodles: While the beef cooks, take the lasagna noodles and break them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Combine Ingredients: Once the beef is nicely browned, add the broken lasagna noodles and pour in the marinara sauce, stirring well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the noodles—roughly 2 cups should do the trick. This will help cook the noodles and create a nice sauce.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking and to check their doneness.
Add Spinach: After the noodles are cooked, throw in the fresh spinach. Stir it into the mixture and cook until it wilts, which should only take a couple of minutes.
Top with Cheese: Once the spinach is wilted, top the skillet with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the skillet again and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which takes just a few more minutes.
Serve: Dish out the skillet lasagna while it’s hot. You can garnish it with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
How to Serve Skillet Lasagna
Skillet lasagna is best served hot right from the stove. You can serve it directly from the skillet for a family-style meal or plate it up individually. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to round out your dinner. A light sprinkle of fresh herbs can brighten the plate and enhance the flavors.
How to Store Skillet Lasagna
If you have leftovers (which can be rare because it’s so tasty!), let the skillet lasagna cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through.
You can also freeze the skillet lasagna. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep well for about 2–3 months. To reheat frozen lasagna, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or you can bake it straight from the freezer, just adding a little extra time to ensure it’s heated through.
Tips to Make Skillet Lasagna
Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey. It reduces the fat content while still keeping the flavors intact.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just chop them finely and sauté them with the beef at the start.
Cheese Variations: If you want to change up the cheese, you can use ricotta or cottage cheese mixed with some herbs for a different twist.
Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative to make a vegetarian version, or simply load it up with more veggies.
Add Spices for Zest: If you love spice, add some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to give it an extra kick.
Variation
Spinach and Mushroom Skillet Lasagna: Include sliced mushrooms along with the spinach for an earthy flavor. The mushrooms add a nice depth to the dish and work well with the marinara sauce.
White Sauce Lasagna: Instead of using marinara sauce, change things up by using a white sauce like Alfredo. This creamy alternative gives a different flavor profile and makes it feel like a whole new dish.
Pasta Alternatives: You can replace traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.
One-Pot Variation: For a one-pot meal, you can add some chicken broth instead of just water. This gives an added flavor boost and keeps everything moist.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use regular pasta! Just break it into smaller pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the type of pasta you use.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the beef. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a nice kick.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.
Skillet lasagna is a versatile and delicious dish that brings families together around the dinner table. With so many ways to customize it, you’ll never get bored. Enjoy your cooking!
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Skillet Lasagna
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Meat
Description
A quick and hearty take on classic lasagna made in one pan with beef, marinara sauce, cheese, and fresh spinach.
Ingredients
- 8 oz lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring to coat.
- Pour in enough water to cover the noodles, roughly 2 cups.
- Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add fresh spinach and stir it in, cooking until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover and cook until cheese is melted and bubbly, a few minutes more.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or plant-based meat. Feel free to add other vegetables or spices as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg