Name: Skillet Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ lb. ground beef; ½ lb. ground sausage; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 Tablespoon tomato paste; 3 Tablespoons flour (optional, helps thicken the sauce); 1 ½ cups beef broth; 16 oz. tomato sauce; ½ cup Ricotta cheese; 2 ½ cups fresh low moisture mozzarella, shredded; ½ pound Campanelle pasta (can substitute bowtie pasta)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 74 reviews

If you love the cozy comfort of traditional Italian lasagna but want a quicker, fuss-free way to get dinner on the table, this Skillet Lasagna Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It delivers all the cheesy, meaty, and saucy goodness of classic lasagna but comes together in a single pan, cutting down on cleanup and prep time without skimping on flavor. Imagine tender pasta tossed in a rich tomato-beef sauce, creamy ricotta melting throughout, and that golden mozzarella bubbling on top. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a heartwarming meal filled with layers of deliciousness.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows two stages of cooking in a white pot placed on a white marbled surface. On the left side, the pot contains cooked ground meat mixed with small pieces of onions, all dark brown with some golden bits. A clear liquid is being poured in from a glass measuring cup above, the woman's hand holding the cup is partly visible. On the right side, the same pot now has a thick layer of red sauce covering most of the brown meat mixture, with some sauce swirled on top and a red spatula with white dots stirring from the right edge. The red sauce contrasts with the darker meat and onion mix underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Skillet Lasagna Recipe keeps things simple but doesn't compromise on taste or texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the savory blend of ground beef and sausage to the fragrant herbs, the creamy cheeses, and the pasta that brings it all together.

½ lb. ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base for the sauce with rich flavor.

½ lb. ground sausage: Adds a slightly spiced, juicy kick that complements the beef perfectly.
1 small yellow onion (diced): Offers sweetness and depth when cooked until softened.
3 cloves garlic: Infuses aromatic warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.

½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens the dish by enhancing all the flavors.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a classic Italian herbaceous note.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a fresh, sweet herb flavor that complements the tomato.

1 Tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and deepens the sauce’s color.
3 Tablespoons flour (optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious consistency.
1 ½ cups beef broth: Creates moisture and savory richness in the sauce.

16 oz. tomato sauce: Forms the tangy, flavorful heart of the sauce.
½ cup Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy texture and mild tang that lightens the dish.
2 ½ cups fresh low moisture mozzarella (shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, golden top layer.

½ pound Campanelle pasta (can substitute bowtie): Holds sauce well with its shape and has a pleasing bite.

How to Make Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Onions

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef and sausage, breaking them up as they brown for even cooking. Halfway through, toss in the diced yellow onion to soften and sweeten as the meat finishes cooking. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the sauce rich but not oily. This step builds the meaty foundation that every great lasagna needs.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Sprinkle in the salt, dried oregano, and basil, then mix in the tomato paste. These ingredients layer intense aromas and flavor right into the meat. Adding flour at this point gives the sauce a velvety thickness once the liquids are added, elevating the texture beautifully.

Step 3: Build the Sauce with Broth and Tomato Sauce

Pour in the beef broth, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan’s bottom—those carry incredible flavor. Follow with the tomato sauce and bring everything to a vigorous boil before lowering to a gentle simmer. This slow melding of ingredients lets the sauce develop rich, harmonious flavors and a smooth, hearty body.

Step 4: Incorporate the Ricotta Cheese

Stir in the ricotta cheese until thoroughly combined; it adds a creamy tang and soft texture that brings balance to the robust sauce. This step makes the dish uniquely luscious compared to typical lasagna recipes and makes every bite extra comforting.

Step 5: Boil the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the Campanelle or bowtie pasta according to package instructions, usually about 10 minutes. Cooking the pasta separately ensures it won’t overcook in the sauce and gives you perfect bite every time.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the pasta well and fold it into the sauce, making sure each piece is coated with the rich, cheesy mixture. This step transforms the components into a unified, delicious dish that’s ready for the final touch.

Step 7: Bake with Mozzarella Topping

If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the pasta and sauce combo to a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then bake uncovered at 500 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese melts and starts to turn golden brown, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure that perfect bubbly crust.

How to Serve Skillet Lasagna Recipe

A round white pan holds a two-layer dish placed on a white marbled surface. The first layer is thick and rich orange-red sauce with visible small chunks, spread evenly inside the pan. The second layer is shredded white cheese, sprinkled generously to cover the sauce. The right image shows the baked version where the cheese has melted into a smooth, creamy white and light golden top with small brown spots. Small green herbs are scattered on the surface, adding specks of color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a bright pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese. You can also add a few basil leaves for extra herbaceous notes. These simple garnishes make your Skillet Lasagna Recipe look as delicious as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This skillet lasagna pairs wonderfully with warm garlic bread topped with melted cheese for extra indulgence, or a crisp green salad to introduce a refreshing balance. Either side complements the meal, creating a well-rounded dinner experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or oven-safe ramekins. Layer the garnishes on top just before serving to impress guests with a personalized touch. It’s a cozy, inviting way to enjoy this beloved dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover skillet lasagna in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it a hearty next-day meal.

Freezing

This Skillet Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep the sauce moist and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this Skillet Lasagna Recipe?

Absolutely! While campanelle or bowtie pasta work best because of their shape, you can use penne, rotini, or even broken lasagna noodles. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta doesn’t get mushy.

Is it necessary to brown both ground beef and sausage?

While you can use just one type of meat, combining beef and sausage adds more depth and complexity to the flavor. The sausage brings a little seasoning and fat that enrich the dish beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the meats with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty veggie-packed sauce that still delivers big on comfort and taste.

Do I have to bake the skillet lasagna at the end?

Baking isn’t strictly required if you prefer, but it really gives the dish a lovely bubbly, browned cheese topping that takes this skillet lasagna recipe to the next level in both flavor and presentation.

Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?

You can cook the sauce and pasta ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, then combine and bake just before serving. This makes weeknight dinners even easier.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Lasagna Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, bringing together classic Italian flavors in a quick, approachable way. Whether you’re new to cooking lasagna or looking for a shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice taste, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delightful, cheesy dinner that everyone will love!

Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need