Easy Skillet Lasagna Beef

This Easy Skillet Lasagna is my favorite way to enjoy all the cozy flavors of classic lasagna without heating up the oven or messing with tons of dishes. Everything cooks up on the stovetop in one pan, bubbling with gooey cheese and familiar Italian spices for a comforting weeknight meal that comes together fast.

I whipped this up on a rushed evening when the kids were starving I loved that it felt as satisfying as traditional lasagna but was so much simpler I promise you will want this one on repeat

Ingredients

• Ground beef: adds rich flavor and keeps the meal filling Look for beef that’s ninety three percent lean or leaner so you do not need to drain much grease
• Small onion, diced: helps build the base flavor Choose one that feels heavy for its size and has no soft spots
• Garlic cloves, minced: or use garlic powder for convenience for depth and aroma Fresh garlic adds the best kick
• Beef broth: brings savory notes and blends the flavors Opt for low sodium broth to control the salt level
• Italian diced tomatoes: infuse herbed tomato sweetness Tomatoes with basil and oregano save you a step
• Italian seasoning: provides the signature lasagna flavor Use a blend with oregano basil rosemary and thyme for best results
• Mafalda pasta: those little ribbon shapes mimic lasagna noodles without fuss Choose any short cut pasta if mafalda is hard to find
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: delivers gooey melts Use whole milk mozzarella for the richest stretch
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): for garnish For bright salty finish always grate fresh if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat Add the ground beef diced onion and minced garlic Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly and the onions appear soft about eight minutes Make sure to stir often for even cooking If there’s excess grease tilt the pan and blot it up

Build the Sauce and Simmer:

Pour in the beef broth undrained Italian diced tomatoes and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning Give everything a good stir Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil

Cook the Pasta to Tender:

Stir in the uncooked mafalda pasta Lower the heat to a steady simmer Let the pasta bubble gently for twelve to fourteen minutes Stir occasionally so it cooks evenly and does not stick to the pan If you like it saucy stop simmering early For less liquid keep it going another two to three minutes

Add the Cheesy Finish:

Once the pasta is tender turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded mozzarella Let it melt so the whole dish gets creamy and cheesy

Serve and Garnish:

Spoon the lasagna into bowls or plates and finish with a scatter of Parmesan if you like Serve hot for the best gooey cheese experience

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You Must Know

• One pot meal so cleanup is a breeze
• Great make ahead for busy weeks
• Flexible for swapping proteins or cheeses

The melty mozzarella is my kids’ favorite topping When they see me grab the skillet and bag of cheese they know dinner is about to get cozy We often sprinkle extra cheese and make it a double cheesy night

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days When reheating add a splash of broth or water to keep the pasta from soaking up too much sauce It reheats well in the microwave or gently on the stovetop

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have mafalda pasta short shapes like rotini penne or even broken lasagna noodles work well Ground turkey makes a lighter swap for beef Canned plain diced tomatoes plus a fat pinch of dried basil and oregano is a solid stand in if Italian tomatoes are not available

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Serving Suggestions

This skillet lasagna is a full meal but a light green salad or toasted garlic bread rounds out the table beautifully Sometimes we add a few leaves of fresh basil before serving for a fresh pop

Cultural or Historical Context

Skillet lasagna draws on the time honored flavors of Italian lasagna but adapts the process for American home cooks craving convenience Instead of layering and baking everything is mingled in the pan making it fast and approachable while staying true to the comforting taste we all know

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute mafalda with other short pasta shapes like rotini or penne, adjusting cook time as needed.

→ Is it possible to use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well in place of beef for a lighter but still flavorful result.

→ How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace beef with plant-based ground or extra mushrooms and use vegetable broth to create a delicious vegetarian version.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it in advance, then reheat gently on the stove. Add extra broth if it thickens too much.

→ What’s the best cheese for topping?

Mozzarella is classic, but a little Parmesan or even provolone can add depth and extra flavor.