Looking for a comforting, hassle-free lasagna that’s both delicious and vegetarian-friendly? Skillet Spinach Lasagna is here to save the day! This easy, one-pot recipe delivers all the flavors of a traditional lasagna with a fraction of the effort. Packed with fresh spinach, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, it’s a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
What Makes Skillet Spinach Lasagna a Game-Changer?
- Quick and Easy: No need to bake! This skillet version is ready in about 35 minutes.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor—cook everything in one skillet.
- Packed with Veggies: Fresh spinach adds a healthy dose of greens without compromising on taste.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan come together for creamy, gooey perfection.
Ingredients for Skillet Spinach Lasagna
Main Ingredients
- Lasagna Noodles (9): Broken into pieces for easy layering in the skillet.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the veggies.
- Onion (1 small): Diced, for a flavorful base.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Minced, to enhance the sauce.
- Fresh Spinach (5 cups): Roughly chopped, providing a fresh, earthy flavor.
Seasonings
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): For a classic Italian touch.
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon): Adds aromatic depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Cheeses
- Ricotta Cheese (15 oz): Creamy and rich, a key component for lasagna.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Shredded, for that gooey, melty finish.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Grated, for a sharp and savory kick.
Other
- Marinara Sauce (24 oz): A jar of your favorite sauce, making the dish quick and flavorful.
- Fresh Basil (Optional): For garnish and added freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, keeping the noodles from sticking by drizzling with a bit of olive oil if needed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
3. Wilt the Spinach
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts and reduces in volume.
- Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the seasonings with the vegetables.
4. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the spinach mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Break the cooked lasagna noodles into large pieces and layer them over the sauce.
- Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese across the noodles.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the ricotta, spreading it out gently.
5. Add Cheese and Cook
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Spinach Lasagna
- Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Skip Pre-Cooking Noodles: Use oven-ready lasagna noodles and cook them directly in the marinara sauce (add 1/2 cup water to the sauce).
- Make It Vegan: Replace ricotta with cashew cream and use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives.
- Enhance the Sauce: Stir in a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before adding it to the skillet.
What’s the best skillet to use?
A large, deep skillet with a lid is ideal for even cooking and layering the ingredients.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or crumbled tofu for extra protein.
How long does leftover lasagna last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze skillet lasagna?
Yes! Let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion: A Comforting, One-Pot Meal You’ll Love
Skillet Spinach Lasagna delivers all the comfort and flavor of a traditional baked lasagna in a fraction of the time. With its rich marinara sauce, creamy cheeses, and fresh spinach, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.
Try it today, and experience the magic of skillet lasagna!