Description
This One Skillet Lasagna recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna without the hassle of multiple layers and baking. Cooked entirely in a single skillet, it combines browned ground beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and tender bowtie pasta, topped with a blend of mozzarella, cottage, and parmesan cheeses for a comforting, family-friendly meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2-3 cups water (or broth as preferred)
- 1-2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules (or beef bouillon)
- 1 (24-oz) jar tomato basil sauce
- 1 (12-oz) box bowtie pasta (uncooked)
Cheese Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 heaping tablespoons cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat, then stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and tomato paste to infuse the meat with rich flavors.
- Add liquids: Pour in 2 cups of water along with the chicken or beef bouillon granules and tomato basil sauce. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil to combine the flavors and prepare for pasta cooking.
- Cook pasta: Stir in uncooked bowtie pasta. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the pasta cook for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Add more water, 1/4 cup at a time, only if necessary to ensure pasta cooks evenly. Avoid excessive stirring to prevent mushy texture.
- Finish: Once the pasta is tender and cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and cover to allow it to melt. In a small bowl, combine cottage cheese and grated parmesan. Spoon this mixture over the skillet lasagna just before serving to add creamy, cheesy richness.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth or beef broth for water to boost flavor and omit bouillon granules.
- Be careful not to over-stir the pasta while cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy and starchy.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best cheesy flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.
- This recipe serves 6 and pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
