Best Skillet Lasagna Recipe

This is the best skillet lasagna, easy to put together and takes way less time to make than traditional lasagna.

This easy dinner can be made in one skillet making dinner clean up so easy! The skillet lasagna is filling and delicious with rich flavors. This dinner can be put together in less than 30 minutes making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

My family absolutely loves this dinner. I am a huge lasagna fan, and making it on the stovetop in a skillet is a win win. So simple to put together and tastes so good!

What is Skillet Lasagna?

Skillet Lasagna is a delicious and easy dinner that can be made in one pan/skillet. This lasagna recipe has all the flavor of a homemade lasagna with significantly less work and time involved. We make this lasagna with mild Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can switch the ingredients up to suit your tastes and preferences.

Can I make this Skillet Lasagna vegetarian?

Yes! This is an easy dinner to make into a vegetarian meal, here are some great vegetable options to consider adding:

Leafy Greens

• Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds color and nutrition.
• Kale: A heartier green that holds up well in baking.
• Swiss Chard: Adds a slightly earthy flavor and vibrant color.

Root Vegetables

• Carrots: Adds sweetness and a nice texture when diced.
• Beets: Provides a sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant color.
• Parsnips: Adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.

Squash

• Zucchini: Mild flavor and soft texture, great for layering.
• Yellow Squash: Similar to zucchini but with a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Butternut Squash: Adds sweetness and creaminess when roasted and pureed.

Nightshades

• Eggplant: Adds a meaty texture and rich flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Provides sweetness and a bit of crunch.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they add juiciness and acidity.

Alliums

• Onions: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
• Garlic: Essential for adding a robust, savory flavor.
• Leeks: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.

Mushrooms

• Button Mushrooms: Common and readily available, adds a mild flavor.
• Portobello Mushrooms: Adds a meaty texture and rich flavor.
• Cremini Mushrooms: Offers a deeper flavor than button mushrooms.

Other Vegetables

• Broccoli: Adds a bit of crunch and lots of nutrients.
• Cauliflower: Mild flavor, works well when roasted and pureed or chopped.
• Artichoke Hearts: Adds a unique flavor and texture.
• Asparagus: Adds a slightly sweet and earthy flavor.
• Peas: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.

Herbs and Seasonings

• Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant, sweet flavor.
• Oregano: Traditional herb that pairs well with tomato-based sauces.
• Thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
• Rosemary: Use sparingly for a pine-like, aromatic flavor.

Tips for Using Vegetables

• Roasting: Roasting vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and squash can bring out their natural sweetness and prevent them from becoming too watery in the lasagna.
• Sautéing: Sautéing vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers can enhance their flavors and reduce excess moisture.
• Layering: Thinly slice or dice vegetables to ensure they cook evenly within the lasagna.
• Seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

By mixing and matching these vegetables, you can create a unique and flavorful vegetarian lasagna that’s both nutritious and delicious.

What is the difference between Marinara and Pasta Sauce?

Marinara sauce and pasta sauce, though both tomato-based, differ in complexity and usage. Marinara sauce is a simple, quick-cooking sauce made primarily from tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. It typically has a bright, fresh tomato flavor and a slightly chunky texture, making it ideal for lighter dishes such as pasta, pizza, and as a dipping sauce. In contrast, pasta sauce, often referred to as spaghetti sauce, is more complex and hearty. It usually includes additional ingredients like ground meat, vegetables, and a variety of herbs and spices, simmered for a longer period to develop a deeper, richer flavor. This makes pasta sauce well-suited for robust dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and baked ziti. Thus, while marinara is appreciated for its simplicity and freshness, pasta sauce is favored for its richness and complexity.

What is the difference between regular lasagna noodles and no boil oven ready lasagna noodles?

Regular boil lasagna noodles and no-boil oven-ready lasagna noodles differ mainly in preparation and texture. Regular boil lasagna noodles require boiling before assembly, which can add to the preparation time but offers a firm texture that can absorb some of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of the lasagna. These noodles provide a traditional feel and are less likely to overcook. In contrast, no-boil oven-ready lasagna noodles are thinner and designed to soften during the baking process, saving time and effort by eliminating the need for pre-cooking. While they simplify the preparation, they tend to have a slightly different texture that some may find less firm. However, they integrate well with the sauce and ingredients, making them a convenient option for a quicker lasagna.

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