Name: Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 yellow onion; 1 red bell pepper; ½ cup water; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp coarse ground black pepper; ¼ tsp Italian Seasoning; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 2 cups marinara sauce; 8 oz farfalle pasta; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup Mozzarella cheese

If you're craving the delightful flavors of lasagna but want something quicker and easier, this skillet lasagna recipe is the perfect choice. Combining rich marinara sauce, savory ground beef, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Photos of Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Some of the ingredients for this recipe may not be staples in every kitchen. You may need to pick up ricotta cheese and marinara sauce from the supermarket. Ensure you get farfalle pasta, which are bow-tie-shaped pasta, to give the dish its unique texture.

Ingredients for Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Lean ground beef: Provides the meaty base of the dish, giving it a rich and savory flavor.

Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.

Red bell pepper: Brings a hint of sweetness and a pop of color.

Water: Helps to cook the pasta evenly in the skillet.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Coarse ground black pepper: Adds a slight heat and depth to the flavor profile.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings the classic Italian taste.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat to the dish.

Marinara sauce: The heart of the lasagna, providing a rich tomato base.

Farfalle pasta: Bow-tie-shaped pasta that holds onto the sauce well.

Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the lasagna.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to give the dish a gooey, cheesy top.

One reader, Jerad Turney says:

This easy skillet lasagna recipe is a game-changer! It's quick, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors blend beautifully, and the cheesy topping is irresistible. Highly recommend!

Jerad Turney

Key Techniques for Perfecting Your Skillet Lasagna

How to cook ground beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.

How to chop an onion: Peel the onion, cut it in half, and then slice it into small, even pieces.

How to chop a bell pepper: Remove the stem and seeds, then slice the bell pepper into small, even pieces.

How to combine ingredients in a skillet: Add ingredients to the skillet in the specified order and stir to combine.

How to cook pasta in a skillet: Ensure the pasta is evenly distributed in the skillet and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.

How to top with cheese: Evenly distribute the ricotta and mozzarella cheese over the pasta before serving.

Are you looking for a quick and easy meal? Shorten your prep time by making this easy skillet lasagna. You won’t stray far from the classic lasagna as this recipe still uses traditional ingredients. Plus, it will only take less than 30 minutes to prepare. It’s so convenient, easy-to-make, and almost a guilty pleasure to enjoy all by yourself. Enjoy this hearty comfort food in your dinner for two .

How To Make Easy Skillet Lasagna

Skip the oven and whip up a savory skillet lasagna instead! It’s packed with tender farfalle pasta simmered in a cheesy marinara sauce for a richer meal.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lblean ground beef
1yellow onion,chopped
1red bell pepper,chopped
½cupwater
½tspkosher salt
¼tspcoarse ground black pepper
¼tspItalian seasoning
¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed
2cupsmarinara sauce
8ozfarfalle pasta,cooked
1cupricotta cheese
1cupmozzarella cheese,shredded

Instructions

Cook the beef in a large skillet with the onion and bell pepper over medium-high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes until cooked.
Add in the water, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and marinara sauce, then cook for 4 to 5 minutes.
Toss in the pasta, then top with mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 599.97kcal
Fat: 33.12g
Saturated Fat: 16.17g
Trans Fat: 0.90g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.63g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.57g
Carbohydrates: 40.43g
Fiber: 3.61g
Sugar: 8.13g
Protein: 33.60g
Cholesterol: 115.06mg
Sodium: 806.08mg
Calcium: 387.94mg
Potassium: 719.50mg
Iron: 3.08mg
Vitamin A: 198.66µg
Vitamin C: 28.66mg

Mastering the Art of Layering: A Crucial Tip for Skillet Lasagna

To ensure the ground beef cooks evenly and remains tender, break it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it browns. This will also help it absorb the flavors from the onion and bell pepper.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Easy Skillet Lasagna

Pre-chop vegetables: Dice the onion and bell pepper in advance and store them in the fridge to save time during cooking.

Use pre-made marinara: Opt for a high-quality, store-bought marinara sauce to cut down on preparation time.

Cook pasta ahead: Boil the farfalle pasta the night before and store it in an airtight container. Add it to the skillet when needed.

Batch cook ground beef: Cook a larger batch of ground beef and freeze portions for future use in quick recipes.

One-pot method: Use a large skillet to cook everything in one pot, reducing cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe

lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and has a similar texture and flavor profile.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a subtle complexity to the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers have a slightly more bitter taste but can still provide the necessary texture and color.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it an easy swap.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat.
italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence includes similar herbs like thyme and rosemary, offering a comparable flavor profile.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide the same level of heat, though it is more finely ground.
marinara sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes with garlic and herbs: Crushed tomatoes with garlic and herbs can mimic the flavor and texture of marinara sauce.
farfalle pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta has a similar cooking time and can hold the sauce well.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese has a similar creamy texture and can be used as a lower-fat alternative.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts well and has a similar mild flavor, making it a good substitute.

How to Beautifully Present Your Skillet Lasagna

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the skillet lasagna in individual cast iron skillets or small oven-safe dishes to create a more refined and personalized dining experience.
Layer the ingredients: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the cooked beef, onion, and bell pepper mixture with the farfalle pasta and marinara sauce. This will create a visually appealing dish with distinct layers.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.
Use high-quality cheeses: Opt for freshly grated mozzarella and artisanal ricotta cheese to elevate the dish. The quality of the cheese can make a significant difference in taste and presentation.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish the dish with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add a glossy finish and a hint of richness.
Serve with a side salad: Pair the skillet lasagna with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna.
Use a clean plate presentation: Ensure that the edges of the serving dishes are clean and free of any spills or smudges. This attention to detail is crucial for a professional presentation.
Add a touch of color: Incorporate a few thin slices of red bell pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color and a hint of spice.
Serve warm: Ensure the skillet lasagna is served warm, as the cheeses will be perfectly melted and the flavors will be at their peak.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Skillet Lasagna

Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the beef, onion, and bell pepper together.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the ingredients in the skillet without scratching the surface.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the water and marinara sauce.
Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring the kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Chef's knife: Ideal for chopping the yellow onion and red bell pepper.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping the vegetables.
Colander: Useful for draining the cooked pasta if pre-cooked or rinsing it before use.
Mixing bowl: Handy for combining the ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese if you want to mix them before adding to the skillet.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the skillet and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
Serving spoon: For serving the finished skillet lasagna onto plates.

Preserving Perfection: Storing and Freezing Your Skillet Lasagna

Let the skillet lasagna cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled lasagna to an airtight container or cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the lasagna:
- Divide the cooled lasagna into individual portions or freeze the entire skillet, depending on your preference.
- Wrap each portion or the entire skillet tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped lasagna with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the wrapped lasagna in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated lasagna, microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire skillet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
For frozen lasagna, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating from frozen, increase the reheating time to 30-40 minutes in the oven, covering the skillet with foil to prevent excessive browning.
When reheating, ensure that the internal temperature of the lasagna reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee food safety.
Avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the lasagna, as this can affect its texture and quality. It's best to portion the lasagna before freezing to allow for easy reheating of individual servings.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Skillet Lasagna

Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover skillet lasagna to an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and crisp up slightly.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the leftover skillet lasagna in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out. Cover the skillet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted.
Reheat in the microwave: transfer individual portions of the skillet lasagna to microwave-safe dishes. Add a splash of water or marinara sauce to keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the lasagna halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Reheat in an air fryer: preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover skillet lasagna to an air fryer-safe dish or basket. If needed, add a small amount of water or marinara sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly crispy on top.
Reheat and repurpose: transform your leftover skillet lasagna into a new dish. For example, stuff the lasagna into bell peppers or zucchini boats, top with extra cheese, and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, use the leftover lasagna as a filling for a hearty sandwich or wrap, and grill until crispy and golden brown.

Fascinating Facts About Skillet Lasagna You Didn't Know

A fun fact about this easy skillet lasagna recipe is that it uses farfalle pasta instead of traditional lasagna noodles, making it quicker to prepare and cook. This twist on a classic dish allows you to enjoy the flavors of lasagna without the need for layering or baking, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Budget-Friendly: Is Skillet Lasagna Economical for Home Cooking?

The easy skillet lasagna recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using lean ground beef, yellow onion, red bell pepper, and pantry staples like marinara sauce and farfalle pasta, this dish offers a hearty meal without breaking the bank. The use of ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a satisfying option. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is This Skillet Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?

This easy skillet lasagna recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes lean ground beef, which is a good source of protein, and vegetables like onion and bell pepper, which provide fiber and nutrients. The recipe also uses a moderate amount of cheese, which can be a good source of calcium when consumed in moderation.

However, there are some areas where the recipe could be improved to make it healthier:

The recipe uses regular pasta, which is high in refined carbohydrates. Switching to whole grain or vegetable-based pasta would increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
The marinara sauce may be high in sodium, depending on the brand used. Opting for a low-sodium variety or making the sauce from scratch using fresh tomatoes could help reduce the sodium content.
The recipe doesn't include any additional vegetables. Adding more veggies, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, would boost the nutrient content and make the dish more well-rounded.

To make this recipe even healthier, you could:

Use a leaner ground meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, to reduce the saturated fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe, aiming for a 50/50 ratio of meat to veggies
Use a reduced-fat ricotta cheese or replace some of the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option
Experiment with adding more herbs and spices, like basil, oregano, or garlic, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Skillet Lasagna Recipe

This easy skillet lasagna recipe is a clever twist on the traditional dish, offering a quicker and more convenient preparation. The use of farfalle pasta simplifies the process, while the combination of ground beef, onion, and bell pepper provides a robust flavor base. The addition of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses ensures a creamy, indulgent finish. However, consider simmering the sauce a bit longer to deepen the flavors, and perhaps adding some fresh basil or garlic for an extra layer of complexity. Overall, it's a delightful and efficient way to enjoy lasagna on a busy weeknight.

Enhance Your Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked breadsticks wafting through your kitchen, each one brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with garlic and Parmesan cheese. These golden delights are the perfect companion to your skillet lasagna, offering a crunchy contrast to the creamy ricotta and mozzarella.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad: A vibrant Caprese Salad brings a burst of color and freshness to your meal. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella slices, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze create a symphony of flavors that complement the hearty lasagna perfectly.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your vegetable game with Brussels sprouts roasted to crispy perfection and finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a hint of caramelized sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the lasagna.

Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Brighten up your plate with asparagus spears sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. This zesty side dish offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy lasagna, making each bite a delightful experience.

Tiramisu: Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with a classic Tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder create a luxurious dessert that perfectly balances the savory flavors of your main course.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Skillet Lasagna

One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese: Dive into a comforting bowl of spaghetti with rich bolognese sauce. This one-pot wonder combines ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs for a hearty meal that's perfect for any night of the week.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bright and colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese, these peppers are a delightful and nutritious dinner option.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Creamy and indulgent, this chicken alfredo pasta features tender pieces of chicken breast in a luscious alfredo sauce. Tossed with fettuccine and sprinkled with parmesan cheese, it's a dish that will satisfy any craving.

Vegetable Lasagna: A vegetarian twist on a classic, this vegetable lasagna layers zucchini, spinach, and ricotta cheese between sheets of lasagna noodles. Topped with a rich tomato sauce and mozzarella, it's a wholesome and delicious meal.

Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry: Quick and flavorful, this beef and broccoli stir-fry combines tender strips of beef with crisp broccoli in a savory soy sauce glaze. Serve over rice for a satisfying and easy dinner.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Skillet Lasagna Perfectly

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These delightful bites are then baked to perfection, creating a creamy and flavorful filling that contrasts beautifully with the earthy taste of the mushrooms. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds a crispy, golden finish. Serve these warm and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Picture a crusty baguette sliced and toasted to a golden brown, then topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil elevate the flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. This classic Italian starter is perfect for any gathering, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in the rich layers of Tiramisu by combining espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a luscious mascarpone cheese mixture. The cocoa powder dusted on top adds a perfect touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Delight your guests with the molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. The warm, gooey chocolate flows out as you cut into the cake, creating a decadent experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of hot and cold sensations.

Why trust this Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe:

This easy skillet lasagna recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With lean ground beef, yellow onion, and red bell pepper, it offers a hearty and flavorful base. The addition of marinara sauce and farfalle pasta ensures a comforting, classic taste. Topped with creamy ricotta cheese and gooey mozzarella cheese, it delivers a satisfying, cheesy finish. Quick to prepare and cook, this dish is a reliable, delicious option for any home cook.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Easy Skillet Lasagna Recipe in our Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the beef, onion, and bell pepper?

It takes about 4 to 5 minutes to cook the beef, onion, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the beef is fully cooked.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of farfalle?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's package instructions.

Do I need to pre-cook the pasta before adding it to the skillet?

No, you don't need to pre-cook the pasta. It will cook in the skillet with the sauce and other ingredients.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer.

How do I know when the lasagna is ready to serve?

The lasagna is ready to serve once the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes after adding the pasta and cheese.