Description
This One Skillet Lasagna is a quick and easy weeknight meal that combines all the classic lasagna flavors in a single pan. Ground beef is browned with Italian seasonings, then simmered with tomato sauce and bowtie pasta until tender. The dish is finished with a blend of mozzarella, cottage, and parmesan cheeses for a creamy, cheesy finish without the fuss of layering or baking. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting skillet lasagna is perfect for busy families.
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)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 heaping tablespoons cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown beef: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat, then stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and tomato paste to evenly coat the meat and develop flavor.
- Add liquids: Pour in 2 cups of water (or broth) along with the chicken bouillon granules and the jar of tomato basil sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil, ensuring the bouillon dissolves to add depth of flavor.
- Cook pasta: Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 12 to 14 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Add additional water, 1/4 cup at a time, if the pasta absorbs too much liquid and needs more moisture. Avoid stirring too much to keep the texture perfect.
- Finish: When the pasta is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and cover the pan to let the cheese melt. Finally, mix together the cottage cheese and grated parmesan, spoon this mixture over the top of the skillet lasagna, and serve immediately for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Notes
- Note 1: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and make the dish lighter.
- Note 2: Shredded mozzarella melts easily; avoid pre-sliced mozzarella for better melting.
- Note 3: Cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and balances the rich mozzarella and parmesan.
- Note 4: Tomato paste boosts the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Note 5: Adding water gradually prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking without making it mushy.
