If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that comes together quickly and without fuss, this Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine all the rich, layered flavors of classic lasagna captured in one pan, saving you time without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. With Italian sausage adding a savory kick and creamy cheeses melting perfectly, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends and family. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every element plays a key role, whether it’s adding depth to the sauce, creamy texture to the cheese layers, or the perfect hint of herbs that make your taste buds sing.
- Olive oil: A good base for sautéing the onions and garlic, ensuring rich flavor without heaviness.
- Onion (finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and texture as it softens during cooking.
- Garlic (minced or grated): Delivers a warm, aromatic depth that’s essential in Italian cooking.
- Red pepper flakes: Offers a subtle kick that wakes up the palate without overpowering the dish.
- Ground Italian sausage: The star protein, bursting with herbs and spices that bring authentic flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred): Impart smoky sweetness and juicy acidity for a well-balanced sauce.
- Tomato sauce: Adds body and richness to the sauce, complementing the tomato chunks perfectly.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that ties the flavors together beautifully.
- Lasagna noodles (regular, not no-boil): Breaks up to layer seamlessly, absorbing the sauce for perfect tenderness.
- Parmesan cheese: Infuses a sharp, nutty taste that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Vital for seasoning and balancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, mild richness and a lovely custard-like texture.
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully on top, creating that irresistible golden, gooey layer.
- Fresh basil (chopped for garnish): Provides a fresh, aromatic finish that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions to Sweet Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and cook it gently until it softens into a lovely translucent base, about 5 minutes. This step unlocks the natural sweetness and ensures your sauce starts with a fantastic flavor foundation.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Liquid
While the onions soften, pour the diced tomatoes with their juice into a quart measuring cup and add just enough water to reach 4 cups total liquid. This mix creates the perfect tomato sauce base that’s juicy but well-balanced—not too watery or too thick for the pasta to absorb properly.
Step 3: Aromatic Garlic and a Kick of Heat
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the softened onions, cooking them just 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick burst of heat and aroma will wake up the flavors and add complexity to your sauce.
Step 4: Brown the Italian Sausage
Next, add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Break the meat into small pieces as it browns evenly, cooking until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. The spices in the sausage bring a robust, savory element that makes this skillet lasagna unforgettable. Drain any excess grease to avoid a heavy sauce.
Step 5: Layer Noodles and Pour Sauce
Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and scatter them evenly over the sausage mixture. Pour the diced tomato-water mix and tomato sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top and give everything a gentle stir to combine. Cover your skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Simmer and Soften the Noodles
Lower the heat to medium-low and let the lasagna cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer is key for the noodles to soak up the sauce and soften without sticking to the pan.
Step 7: Adjust Liquid and Finish Cooking
Check your skillet after 15 minutes; if the sauce seems too thick or dry, add a splash more water. Continue cooking another 15 minutes until the noodles are tender and easily cut with a fork, ensuring the perfect texture throughout.
Step 8: Stir in Parmesan and Season
Take the skillet off heat and mix in the parmesan cheese. Give it a taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. This step adds a beautifully sharp, salty finish to the sauce.
Step 9: Top with Ricotta and Mozzarella
Dollop spoonfuls of the creamy ricotta cheese across the surface, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Cover the skillet and allow the cheeses to melt and meld into the sauce for 5 to 10 minutes. This cheesy blanket is what makes this skillet lasagna truly irresistible.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, scatter freshly chopped basil over the top for a burst of herbal brightness. Serve immediately while it’s hot and bubbly, and watch everyone dig in enthusiastically.
How to Serve Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the best garnish to complement your skillet lasagna, offering an herbal lift to contrast the richness of the cheeses and sausage. For an extra touch, a grating of fresh parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate your plate beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are also fantastic for soaking up any remaining sauce and adding a crunchy texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the skillet to the table for a rustic, cozy feel, perfect for casual dinners. Alternatively, portion it into individual ramekins for a fun, elegant presentation that’s perfect for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making for tasty meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before adding the fresh basil garnish and only add it fresh upon reheating to retain its vibrant flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the lasagna gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, covered, to keep it moist. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or milk to bring back that lovely saucy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage provides that signature bold flavor, turkey or chicken sausage can be a lighter alternative. Just make sure it’s seasoned well or add a bit more Italian seasoning to keep the taste vibrant.
Why shouldn’t I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?
No-boil noodles tend to absorb too much liquid quickly and might make the skillet lasagna too thick or mushy. Breaking up regular lasagna noodles allows for better texture and ensures the noodles cook evenly in the sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and substitute it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Using a vegan sausage product works well too, keeping all the delicious layers intact.
Do I need a special skillet for this recipe?
A 12-inch non-stick or heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even heating and preventing sticking. Avoid cast iron unless it’s well-seasoned and non-stick, as acidic tomato sauce could react with the metal.
How spicy is this Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, which you can adjust to your liking by adding more or less. The Italian sausage also has some spice depending on the brand, so overall it’s balanced, not overly fiery.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a recipe that brings together hearty flavors, convenience, and unforgettable comfort all in one skillet. This Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe delivers exactly that, making it a perfect go-to for almost any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try, share it with your favorite people, and watch it become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.
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Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage combines rich tomato sauce, tender broken lasagna noodles, and creamy cheeses all cooked in one pan for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for those craving the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna but short on time, this recipe delivers great taste in half the time with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 28 oz diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Water as needed to make 4 cups total liquid
Pasta
- 8 lasagna noodles (regular, not no-boil), broken into pieces
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and 1/2 tsp salt. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare tomato liquid: While onions cook, pour diced tomatoes with juice into a quart measuring cup. Add water to measure 4 cups total.
- Add garlic and spices: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to onions and cook for 30 seconds to release aromas.
- Cook sausage: Add ground Italian sausage to skillet. Break it up into small pieces and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add noodles and sauce: Break lasagna noodles into pieces and add over the sausage mixture. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top and mix well. Cover skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer first phase: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking: Check if sauce is drying; add more water if needed. Cook an additional 15 minutes until noodles are tender and easily cut with a fork.
- Add parmesan and season: Remove skillet from heat. Stir in parmesan cheese and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Add ricotta and mozzarella: Dot the surface with ricotta cheese and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Cover and let sit off heat for 5-10 minutes to let cheese melt.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over top and serve immediately for a comforting, hearty meal.
Notes
- Use regular lasagna noodles, not no-boil, as they cook in the skillet.
- Breaking noodles into smaller pieces speeds cooking and makes serving easier.
- Adjust water amount as needed to keep sauce from drying during simmer.
- For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes slightly.
- Can substitute turkey Italian sausage for a leaner option.
- Fresh basil adds bright flavor; feel free to add more as garnish.
- Make sure skillet is large enough (12-inch recommended) to accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
