Skillet Lasagna
Whenever I think about comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is the Skillet Lasagna. It’s a meal that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings, where everyone would gather around the table, plates piled high with layers of deliciousness. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they were skeptical at first, but one bite changed everything. The melty cheese, the hearty sauce, and the perfectly cooked noodles create a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience, a memory maker, and a go-to for busy weeknights when time is short but the desire for something fulfilling is strong.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
5 mins
25 mins
Medium
540 kcal
30g g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
25g g
Large Pot, Grater, Saucepan, Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife
The Charm of This Skillet Lasagna
Quick and Easy
One of the standout features of the Skillet Lasagna is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Unlike traditional lasagna, which can take hours to assemble and cook, this version allows you to enjoy it in just a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table without sacrificing flavor.
One-Pan Wonder
Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s made in one pan. This means less cleanup for you! After a long day, the last thing you want is a mountain of dishes to tackle. With the Skillet Lasagna, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the post-dinner hassle.
Layered Perfection
The layers of flavors in this dish are simply irresistible. The richness of the meat, the acidity of the tomato sauce, and the creaminess of the cheese create a delightful balance. Each bite is a delicious adventure, and you can customize it to your liking. Don’t like beef? Swap it for turkey or even a meat substitute.
Family-Friendly
This is a dish that everyone in the family will love. Kids enjoy the familiar flavors, while adults appreciate the comforting heartiness. It’s a great way to introduce more vegetables by adding in some spinach or zucchini, making it a well-rounded meal.
Perfect for Leftovers
Leftovers are another highlight. The Skillet Lasagna tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep or to pack for lunch the next day. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later on.
Versatile Dish
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding your favorite herbs or spices, or by using different types of cheese. You can even throw in some of your favorite vegetables to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
Skillet Lasagna Ingredients
When it comes to creating a fantastic Skillet Lasagna, the ingredients are key. Each component plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture of the dish. The combination of hearty meat, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this dish a family favorite.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil: This adds richness and helps to sauté the onion.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Onion provides a flavorful base for the dish.
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef: The main protein source, giving the dish its hearty character.
- 1 teaspoon Stone House Seasoning: A blend of spices that enhances the meat’s flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of chopped fresh oregano (divided): Adds a fresh, herbal note.
- pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
- 4 cups tomato sauce: The sauce brings everything together, adding moisture and flavor.
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces: The pasta gives the dish its structure and heartiness.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese, divided: Provides creaminess and richness.
Step by Step Instructions for Skillet Lasagna
Making the Skillet Lasagna is a straightforward process that yields amazing results. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be able to create a delicious meal that your family will love. Let’s get started!
- Drizzle olive oil into a medium skillet set over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for a minute.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until it turns translucent, about 3 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and fragrant.
- Next, incorporate the ground beef into the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned throughout, which should take about 5 minutes. Discard any excess drippings from the pan.
- Now it’s time to add flavor. Stir in the Stone House Seasoning, 1 teaspoon of the fresh oregano, and the optional red pepper flakes. Mix well, allowing the spices to coat the meat.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir everything together until the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
- Now, bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
- After 20 minutes, take the skillet off the heat. You’ll see the noodles have absorbed some of the sauce and are cooked through.
- Top the dish with Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and the remaining oregano. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheeses to melt.
- Finally, serve the Skillet Lasagna hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t rush the simmering: Allow the noodles to soak up the flavors by simmering them properly.
- Layering: If you prefer lasagna with more cheese, feel free to add extra layers of ricotta and Parmesan.
- Resting time: Let the dish sit after cooking to help the flavors meld together.
- Ingredient variations: You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative.
Variations to Try
Exploring different twists on the Skillet Lasagna can elevate your dining experience. Here are some exciting variations to consider:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate spinach or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value.
- Cheese options: Experiment with different varieties of cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for unique flavors.
- Meat alternatives: Try using ground turkey or even a plant-based meat for a lighter version.
- Herb enhancements: Fresh basil can be added for a burst of flavor.
- Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Mix in some cream cheese with the ricotta for a richer texture.
- Serving style: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Serve Skillet Lasagna
When it comes to serving the Skillet Lasagna, the options are as diverse as the flavors in the dish itself. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair with garlic bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh salad: Serve with a crisp salad to balance the richness of the lasagna.
- Occasions: This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual gatherings with friends.
- Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
- Seasonal pairings: In winter, serve with a warm soup as a starter for a cozy meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Skillet Lasagna is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely family dinners. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it! Enjoy every delicious bite and make lasting memories around your dining table.
Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drizzle olive oil into a medium skillet set over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for a minute.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until it turns translucent, about 3 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and fragrant.
- Next, incorporate the ground beef into the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned throughout, which should take about 5 minutes. Discard any excess drippings from the pan.
- Now it’s time to add flavor. Stir in the Stone House Seasoning, 1 teaspoon of the fresh oregano, and the optional red pepper flakes. Mix well, allowing the spices to coat the meat.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir everything together until the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
- Now, bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
- After 20 minutes, take the skillet off the heat. You’ll see the noodles have absorbed some of the sauce and are cooked through.
- Top the dish with Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and the remaining oregano. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheeses to melt.
- Finally, serve the Skillet Lasagna hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Tip 2: This dish freezes well; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container.
- Tip 3: Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Allow the noodles to soak up the flavors by simmering them properly.
- Tip 5: If you prefer lasagna with more cheese, feel free to add extra layers of ricotta and Parmesan.
