Lazy Lasagna

Posted by: Authentic Flavors Made Easy

All the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna with a fraction of the work! This Lazy Lasagna combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted mozzarella in one easy skillet or casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want homemade comfort food without the hassle.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Lasagna

• 12 ounces (340 g) rotini, penne, or mafalda pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups (720 ml) marinara sauce
• ½ cup (120 ml) water or beef broth

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Topping

• 2 cups (225 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
4. Add the ground beef and onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the meat until browned. Drain any excess grease if needed.
5. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the marinara sauce and water (or broth). Simmer for 5 minutes.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta, egg, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and garlic powder.
8. Fold the cooked pasta into the meat sauce until well coated.
9. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then gently swirl it through.
10. Sprinkle evenly with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
11. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. (Alternatively, cover the skillet and cook on the stovetop over low heat until the cheese melts.)
12. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli
• Garlic knots
• Antipasto salad

Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken or ground turkey for a delicious variation.
• Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan provide the best melt and flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.