Look no further for the cheesiest, meatiest, One Pot Lasagna you’ll ever eat. With just one pot and simple ingredients, this lasagna packs all the flavor and comfort of the classic dish without the time-consuming layering or cleanup. One bite of this ah-mazing pasta dish and you’ll never make a traditional lasagna again!

Cuisine: Italian
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love Making It
- One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to piles of dishes! Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.
- Family Favorite: With rich marinara, melty cheese, and savory Italian sausage, this dish is guaranteed to become a dinner staple.
- Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a pro to make this lasagna. The step-by-step instructions will guide you through effortlessly.
- Customizable: Switch up the proteins, add veggies, or make it vegetarian to suit your family’s preferences.
Ingredients
- 8 lasagna noodles: Broken into 2-3 inch pieces for even cooking and easy serving. No need to pre-cook them; they’ll cook directly in the sauce.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage: Opt for mild, spicy, or a mix, depending on your taste. Ground beef or turkey can be substituted.
- 1-2 teaspoons minced garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred garlic works too for convenience.
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for a personal touch. Look for a variety with no added sugar for a healthier option.
- 1 cup water: Helps to cook the noodles evenly and thin the sauce slightly. Adjust the amount if you’re using a thicker marinara sauce.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary adds depth to the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides creaminess and that signature lasagna texture. Cottage cheese can work as a substitute.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty top layer. Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded.
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to complement the other cheeses.
- Fresh basil (optional): A garnish of basil leaves elevates the presentation and adds a burst of freshness.
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage
In a large, 2-inch-deep skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until fully browned and no pink remains (about 5-7 minutes). Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. - Add Sauce and Seasoning
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, followed by 1 cup of water. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and stir everything together until well combined. - Incorporate Lasagna Noodles
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pan. Stir to ensure the noodles are submerged in the sauce as much as possible. - Simmer and Cook
Reduce the heat to medium-low, maintaining a high simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure the noodles cook evenly. If the sauce thickens too much before the noodles are tender, add a splash of water and stir. - Add the Cheeses
Once the noodles are tender, drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the dish, spreading it slightly with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly on top. - Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet again and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden-brown finish, transfer the skillet to the oven set to BROIL for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning. - Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can! Broken-up fettuccine, penne, or even rotini can be used as substitutes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the pasta for doneness as you go.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. The dish will still be hearty and flavorful.