This One-Skillet Lasagna brings all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a quick and easy stovetop meal. No need to turn on the oven—this dish layers ground beef, tomatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and melty mozzarella in a single pan. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this meal is ready in just 30 minutes and is sure to be a family favorite!

Full Recipe:

This One-Skillet Lasagna brings all the classic flavors of traditional lasagna into a quick and easy stovetop meal. No need to turn on the oven—this dish layers ground beef, tomatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and melty mozzarella in a single pan. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this meal is ready in just 30 minutes and is sure to be a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound ground beef
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with basil, oregano, and garlic, undrained
• 2 jars (14 ounces each) spaghetti sauce
• 2/3 cup condensed cream of onion soup, undiluted
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 1/4 cups 1% cottage cheese
• 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 9 no-cook lasagna noodles
• 1/2 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Cook the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and garlic until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Drain the excess fat, then stir in the diced tomatoes and spaghetti sauce. Heat through, then transfer to a large bowl.
2. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a small bowl, mix the cream of onion soup, eggs, cottage cheese, and Italian seasoning.
3. Layer the lasagna: Return 1 cup of the meat sauce to the skillet, spreading it evenly. Add 1 cup of the cottage cheese mixture, 1 1/2 cups of meat sauce, and half of the lasagna noodles (breaking them to fit if necessary). Repeat with the remaining cottage cheese mixture, meat sauce, and noodles. Top with the remaining meat sauce.
4. Cook the lasagna: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–17 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
5. Melt the cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded Colby-Monterey Jack and mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and let stand for 2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
6. Serve and enjoy: Let the lasagna rest uncovered for 10–20 minutes if it appears too soupy, as the noodles will continue to absorb liquid. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 478
• Fat: 20g (8g saturated)
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 15g
• Cholesterol: 128mg
• Sodium: 1552mg

Why One-Skillet Lasagna is a Game Changer

Unlike traditional lasagna, which requires multiple steps and long baking times, this stovetop version is quick, easy, and mess-free. Here’s why it stands out:

• No Oven Required: Everything is cooked on the stovetop, making this a great option for summer or when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using just one skillet means fewer dishes to wash.
• Fast Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is a great alternative for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Creamy and Cheesy: The addition of cottage cheese and cream of onion soup creates a smooth, velvety texture that complements the savory meat sauce.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences—swap ground beef for turkey, use different cheeses, or add extra veggies for a healthier twist.

The Secret to a Perfect One-Skillet Lasagna

Making lasagna in a skillet might sound unusual, but the technique is surprisingly simple and effective. The key to achieving perfect texture and flavor lies in layering ingredients properly and letting everything cook together in the same pan.

1. Cooking the Meat Sauce

The foundation of any good lasagna is a rich, hearty meat sauce. In this recipe, the sauce comes together quickly with:

• Ground beef: Provides a savory, meaty base. You can substitute with ground turkey or sausage for variety.
• Garlic: Adds depth and a classic Italian aroma.
• Diced tomatoes with herbs: Enhances the robust tomato flavor with hints of basil and oregano.
• Spaghetti sauce: A shortcut ingredient that adds instant flavor and makes the dish extra saucy.

2. Layering Without the Hassle

Traditional lasagna requires careful layering, but in this one-skillet method, the process is much easier:

• The meat sauce forms the base and is spread evenly in the skillet.
• A cheese mixture with cottage cheese, eggs, and cream of onion soup is layered on top.
• The no-cook lasagna noodles go in next, slightly overlapping to cover the filling.
• More layers of meat sauce, cheese, and noodles build structure without needing a baking dish.

Because everything cooks together in one pan, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying lasagna experience without the traditional baking time.

3. Simmering to Perfection

Once layered, the lasagna is brought to a simmer, covered, and cooked for about 15 minutes. The steam and moisture from the sauce help the no-cook noodles soften perfectly, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

4. Melting the Cheese Topping

A combination of Colby-Monterey Jack and mozzarella cheese is sprinkled over the top and left to melt into a gooey, golden layer. Covering the skillet for a couple of minutes traps the heat, allowing the cheese to melt smoothly over the layers.

If you prefer a slightly crispier top, you can transfer the skillet to a broiler for a minute or two to achieve a light golden-brown finish.

How to Customize Your One-Skillet Lasagna

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your tastes.

Protein Variations

• Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Italian sausage for a spicier, more robust flavor.
• Meatless crumbles or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Cheese Options

• Ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a creamier, more traditional texture.
• Parmesan for extra saltiness and nutty depth.
• Pepper Jack for a little heat.

Add More Vegetables

• Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be mixed into the meat sauce for added nutrition.
• Mushrooms add a hearty, meaty texture while keeping the dish light.

Make It Gluten-Free

• Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure that the spaghetti sauce and cream of onion soup are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal.

Perfect Side Dishes for One-Skillet Lasagna

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
• Side Salad: A light, fresh contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
• Roasted Vegetables: Adds a sweet, caramelized balance to the dish.
• Minestrone Soup: A classic Italian soup to round out the meal.

Wine and Drink Pairings

• Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot pairs well with the tomato-based sauce.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing non-alcoholic option.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: Helps balance the richness of the cheese and sauce.

Storing and Reheating One-Skillet Lasagna

One of the best things about this dish is that it makes great leftovers!

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months by wrapping individual portions in foil and storing in a freezer-safe bag.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until fully warmed through.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Conclusion

One-Skillet Lasagna is a quick, convenient, and satisfying twist on the traditional baked version. It delivers all the rich flavors of classic lasagna—savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta—but in a fraction of the time and with far less cleanup.

With easy layering, stovetop cooking, and endless customization options, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and family meals. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a go-to favorite.