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Skillet Lasagna

Easy Skillet Lasagna

This Easy Skillet Lasagna delivers all the cozy, cheesy flavors of traditional lasagna with a fraction of the effort! Made entirely in one oven-safe pan—no layering, no pre-boiling noodles, and minimal cleanup. Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and three kinds of cheese create a comforting dinner ready in about 45 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz (1 lb) Italian sausage (ground or removed from casings)
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped (sweet or Vidalia preferred)
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (use a quality brand you love)
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 8 regular lasagna noodles, broken into 2–3 inch pieces (NOT oven-ready)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • 12-inch oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Oven
  • Spatula
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and position rack in the top third. Use a 12-inch oven-safe skillet (cast iron preferred).
  2. In the skillet over medium-high heat, cook Italian sausage and chopped onion for about 10 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce, broth, and dried oregano. Break lasagna noodles into pieces and submerge them in the liquid. Stir well to coat.
  5. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until noodles are al dente and the sauce has thickened to a rich consistency. Add a splash of broth if noodles aren’t tender yet.
  6. Remove skillet from heat. Dollop ricotta in 8–10 spoonfuls over the top, then sprinkle evenly with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake uncovered for 10 minutes. Switch to broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Let lasagna rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil or parsley and serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use regular noodles, not oven-ready, for best texture. Stir noodles frequently to prevent sticking. Don’t skip broiling for that signature golden top. If sauce thickens too quickly, add a bit more broth.
Variations: Try a vegetarian version with mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach; or swap sausage for ground beef or turkey. Add red pepper flakes for heat or use a white sauce for a creamy twist.

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