Print

Quick Skillet Lasagna Recipe Easy Homemade Dinner in 30 Minutes

quick skillet lasagna - featured image

A quick and easy skillet lasagna recipe that delivers comforting, cheesy layers in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 oz tomato paste (about 170g can)
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes (about 400g can)
  • 1 cup water or beef broth (240 ml)
  • 6 oz lasagna noodles (about 67 noodles), broken into pieces
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (240g), small-curd recommended
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (200g), whole milk
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in your skillet (about 2 minutes). When it shimmers, add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning halfway through.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes and water or broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
  6. Layer broken lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce, pressing them down gently to submerge in the liquid.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover with the lid, and cook for 15 minutes. Check after 12 minutes to stir gently if noodles are sticking.
  8. While noodles cook, mix cottage cheese and 1 cup mozzarella in a bowl to create a creamy blend.
  9. After noodles are tender, remove the lid and dollop the cheese mixture over the noodles. Spread evenly using a spoon.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.
  11. Turn off heat and let the skillet lasagna rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If sauce thickens too much before noodles are done, add a splash of water or broth. Do not rush resting time after cooking for best flavor and texture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles. For dairy-free, substitute cheeses with vegan alternatives but expect texture differences.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick skillet lasagna, easy lasagna recipe, 30 minute dinner, weeknight dinner, skillet lasagna, homemade lasagna, comfort food