30-Minute Skillet Lasagna – Quick & Comforting

This 30-Minute Skillet Lasagna is a quick, delicious, and hearty version of the classic comfort food. Layered with tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, it’s ready in just half an hour. Perfect for weeknight dinners, busy schedules, or when you crave comfort food fast, this skillet lasagna saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes for busy nights
• All-in-one skillet method for easy cleanup
• Cheesy, creamy, and loaded with flavor
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep
• Customizable with ground beef, turkey, or vegetables

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup water or beef broth
• 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef with onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, water (or broth), broken lasagna noodles, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
5. Remove skillet from heat. Dollop ricotta cheese evenly over the noodles.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover and let sit for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles if preferred.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• For extra cheesy lasagna, add a second layer of mozzarella.
• Let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes to fully melt cheese.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.
• Freeze in portions before adding cheese for up to 2 months. Reheat gently.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
• Top with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for flavor.
• Great as a main dish for family dinners or potlucks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based ground alternative.

Do I need to pre-cook the noodles?

No, broken uncooked lasagna noodles cook directly in the sauce, saving time.

Can I use store-bought ricotta or homemade?

Either works. Fresh ricotta is creamy, but store-bought is convenient.

How can I make it extra cheesy?

Layer additional mozzarella on top or mix some into the ricotta for richer flavor.

Ready to Make It?

This 30-Minute Skillet Lasagna delivers cheesy, comforting flavor in half the time of traditional lasagna. Perfect for busy nights or cozy dinners, it’s a quick, family-approved favorite.

You Might Also Like

• Hearty Beef Chili – Thick and flavorful comfort food.
• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Smooth, rich, and cozy.
• Loaded Baked Potato Soup – Rich and creamy classic.
• Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff – Creamy, comforting weeknight meal.

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