Introduction
Experience the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna with a contemporary twist, all created in one skillet. This Skillet Lasagna Delight is perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering rich layers of noodles, savory beef, and gooey cheese, all combined together in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients
500 grams ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped (about 150 grams)
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 6 grams)
600 grams tomato sauce
200 ml water
30 grams tomato paste
8 uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces (approximately 240 grams)
1 teaspoon dried basil (2 grams)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (2 grams)
Salt and pepper to taste
300 grams ricotta cheese
150 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
100 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Stir in the tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Spoon the ricotta cheese in dollops over the noodle mixture, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together. As the beef starts to brown, the onion will become tender and fragrant. This melding of flavors sets a savory foundation for the dish. When the beef is thoroughly cooked, add minced garlic, allowing it to sauté for another minute to release its aromatic oils.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
Stir in the rich tomato sauce, water, and tomato paste, ensuring a smooth blend. Add the dried basil and oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. As the sauce simmers, your kitchen will fill with an enticing aroma that hints at the comforting dish to come.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Toss in the broken lasagna noodles, making sure they are well-submerged in the bubbling sauce. Cover the skillet and lower the heat, letting the noodles cook for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring even cooking, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Once the noodles are ready, reduce the heat to low. Drop dollops of ricotta cheese across the mixture for a creamy texture, then sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of cheeses will melt into a gooey topping that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly with a golden finish. This final step transforms your skillet into a cheesy masterpiece, ready to capture the hearts of your diners.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant and herbaceous touch before serving. This adds a splash of color and freshness that perfectly complements the hearty dish.
Notes
Prep Time
The preparation of this dish takes about 10 minutes, allowing you to dive straight into the cooking process without much hassle.
Cook Time
The total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering.
Serving Size
This recipe comfortably yields 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or a small gathering with friends.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or cheddar for unique flavors.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and adjust the spices accordingly.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave while adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Cook Techniques
1. Searing
Searing the ground beef ensures it develops a rich flavor and brown crust, adding depth to the overall dish.
2. Simmering
Simmering the sauce with the noodles allows the flavors to meld together while cooking the pasta evenly in a single skillet.
3. Layering
Layering the cheeses atop the noodle mixture creates a beautiful, gooey topping that melts perfectly, enhancing the texture and taste.
4. Covering
Covering the skillet while cooking helps to trap steam, ensuring the noodles cook thoroughly and the cheese melts uniformly.
5. Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast, elevating the presentation of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Can I use whole lasagna noodles instead of broken ones?
While it’s recommended to break the noodles for even cooking, you can use whole ones if you adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute, and ensure your tomato sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the beef sauce and noodles ahead of time and assemble it with cheese right before cooking. This reduces the overall time needed to serve.
Conclusion
Skillet Lasagna Delight serves as a quick and satisfying meal that encapsulates the essence of traditional lasagna while offering a modern, hassle-free approach. With its rich layers of savory beef, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked noodles, it’s the ultimate comfort food that can easily become a family favorite. Ideal for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish ensures that everyone can enjoy a delightful dinner without the extensive preparation or clean-up.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna
Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. Use ricotta and mozzarella for delightful creaminess.
Mexican Skillet Lasagna
Incorporate layers of taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist on the classic dish.
Chicken Alfredo Skillet Lasagna
Replace ground beef with cooked shredded chicken and mix it with Alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce. Layer in spinach and mozzarella for a creamy delight.
Pesto Skillet Lasagna
Add a layer of basil pesto to the ricotta cheese for an herby flavor. Combine roasted vegetables such as bell peppers and eggplant for extra texture and taste.
Seafood Skillet Lasagna
Use shrimp and crab meat combined with a white sauce. Top with mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant, seafood-inspired meal.
