Tired of complicated lasagna recipes that take hours to prepare? Craving a delicious, healthy vegetarian meal that's ready in under an hour? Then look no further! This Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It combines all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in a single skillet, making it a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dinner. This recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts seeking delicious dishes and best recipes without the fuss. It's one of those easy recipes that will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 9 lasagna noodles, broken into thirds
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (12 inches or larger) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your skillet lasagna.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. This creamy ricotta mixture adds a delightful texture and richness to the lasagna.
Step 4: Assemble the Skillet Lasagna
Layer one-third of the lasagna noodles in the skillet, slightly overlapping if necessary. Spread half of the tomato sauce over the noodles, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: another third of the noodles, the remaining tomato sauce, the remaining ricotta mixture, and the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Top with the final layer of lasagna noodles.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the noodles are tender. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This step creates that irresistible golden-brown cheesy crust we all love.
Tips and Variations:
- For a heartier meal: Add 1 cup of cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the tomato sauce for an extra kick.
- Make it cheesy: Use a blend of different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a more complex flavor.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe can be assembled ahead of time and baked later. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 15-20g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both quick and delicious. It's a perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and flavorful alternative to traditional lasagna. Enjoy!