Description
This Quick Cast Iron Skillet Lasagna offers a speedy, one-pan approach to a classic Italian-American comfort food. Ground beef or Italian sausage is browned with aromatic onions and garlic, then simmered with marinara sauce, broken lasagna noodles, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Topped with dollops of creamy ricotta and a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this skillet lasagna is both hearty and convenient, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 2 cups water
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Brown the meat: Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking.
- Sauté the onion: Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent, which enhances its sweetness and flavor.
- Add aromatics and seasoning: Mix in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine sauce and liquids: Pour in the marinara sauce and water, stirring well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Add the pasta: Stir in the broken lasagna noodles, pressing them gently into the sauce to ensure they are submerged and will cook evenly.
- Simmer the lasagna: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check that noodles are tender.
- Add cheeses: Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the top of the skillet lasagna, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Melt the cheese: Cover again and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley, and serve warm directly from the skillet.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe cast iron skillet for best heat retention and even cooking.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for beef or sausage.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for more nutrition and flavor.
- Ensure noodles are broken into smaller pieces so they cook evenly in the skillet.
- Covering the skillet during simmering helps cook the pasta thoroughly and melt the cheese efficiently.
