Beef and Spinach Lasagna Skillet

There’s something undeniably comforting about lasagna—the layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles baked to bubbly perfection. But what if you could capture all those wonderful flavors in one skillet, with less fuss and in a fraction of the time? Enter the Beef and Spinach Lasagna Skillet. This one-pan wonder combines hearty ground beef, fresh spinach, and classic Italian herbs with broken lasagna noodles, simmering right on your stovetop to create a luscious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why It Works Every Time

This recipe works every time because it simplifies the traditional lasagna process without sacrificing any of the flavor. By cooking everything in a single skillet, you save time on prep and cleanup. The broken lasagna noodles cook directly in the sauce, soaking up all those savory tomato and beef juices, while the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish. Adding ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese gives you all the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave in a lasagna—but with less hassle. Plus, this skillet meal is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy swaps and tweaks that suit your pantry or preferences.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil, for cooking

Gear Checklist

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid – essential for cooking the noodles and sauce together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and breaking up the beef.
• Knife and cutting board – to chop onion, garlic, and spinach.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure balanced seasoning and ingredient amounts.

Stepwise Method: Beef and Spinach Lasagna Skillet

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the beef is browned, stir in the chopped fresh spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the dried Italian herbs. Stir everything until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Incorporate the Broken Lasagna Noodles

Add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the skillet, making sure they’re submerged in the sauce. If necessary, add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of water to cover the noodles. Stir to combine, then cover the skillet with a lid. Simmer gently for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Once the noodles are cooked through, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a gooey, golden blanket over the lasagna.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Turn off the heat and let the skillet rest for a few minutes. This helps the layers set slightly and makes serving easier. Scoop portions onto plates and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. This skillet pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or some garlic bread.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Spinach substitutions: Use kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for different leafy greens that bring unique flavors and textures.
• Tomatoes: Swap crushed tomatoes for fresh diced tomatoes in summer, or use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.
• Cheese variations: Try swapping ricotta for cottage cheese or adding dollops of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Meat alternatives: Ground turkey or lamb can replace beef for a different protein profile without losing richness.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Use broken lasagna noodles instead of whole sheets to speed up cooking and avoid the need for boiling noodles separately.
• Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of butter along with olive oil.
• Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.
• If you want to sneak in more veggies, finely dice mushrooms or bell peppers and cook them with the onions.
• This recipe works great as a base to create new dishes like the Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake for a fun twist on family favorites.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store leftover Beef and Spinach Lasagna Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until warmed through, or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

This skillet also freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the noodles may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors remain delicious.

Quick Questions

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles instead of breaking regular noodles?

Yes! No-boil noodles are a great shortcut here. Just layer them in the skillet and add extra liquid to ensure they cook fully. Adjust the cooking time as needed to soften the noodles.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version. The spinach and cheeses still provide plenty of richness.

Can I prepare the skillet in advance?

You can assemble the skillet ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, just follow the cooking steps. However, it’s best to cook the noodles fresh to avoid over-softening.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

A fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables balance the richness of the Beef and Spinach Lasagna Skillet beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a classic companion to soak up extra sauce.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta With Spinach – Another comforting pasta dish with a veggie boost.
• Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake – A fun, flavorful casserole that’s simple to make and loved by all ages.
• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl – A vibrant, protein-packed meal full of roasted veggies and grains.
• One-Pan Kale Chicken Pasta – A quick and nourishing dinner loaded with greens and lean protein.

The Takeaway

The Beef and Spinach Lasagna Skillet is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering and baking. It’s hearty, cheesy, and loaded with fresh spinach for a bright touch. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food fast. The method also allows for plenty of creative swaps and additions, making it a versatile dinner solution that your whole family will love. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or a casual cook seeking delicious simplicity, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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