If you’re craving the comforting layers of classic lasagna but want to skip the oven and the lengthy assembly, this Skillet Lasagna Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. It brings together all those rich, savory flavors—sautéed bell peppers, hearty Italian sausage, tangy marinara, and gooey melted cheese—right in one pan, making dinner not only faster to prepare but also easier to clean up. It’s the perfect cozy meal that feels homemade and special with every bite, proving that skillet-cooked pasta can be just as satisfying as bakes from the oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of nine white bowls and one white onion arranged neatly on a rustic wooden surface. Starting from the top left, a large bowl filled with uncooked yellow farfalle pasta sits next to a bowl of raw, pink ground meat to the right. Above the bowl of meat are two crystal clear salt and pepper shakers. Below the pasta is a whole white onion, and next to it, a medium bowl holds chopped green bell peppers. To the right of this are two bowls stacked vertically: the top one contains bright red tomato sauce with a smooth texture, and below it is a bowl of finely shredded white cheese. Centrally placed below the green peppers is a bowl with chopped red bell peppers. On the left side below the onion, three small bowls hold red chili flakes, a pale yellow powder, and dried mixed herbs in descending order. At the very bottom left, a medium bowl contains thick, white ricotta cheese. The whole setup rests on a rustic wooden table, but the background is changed to a white marbled texture in the final image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Skillet Lasagna Recipe plays a key role, from building deep flavor layers to creating a colorful, inviting dish. You’ll appreciate how simple, fresh ingredients come together effortlessly to create something truly memorable.

Olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base for sautéing the vegetables and sausage ensuring flavors meld beautifully.
Green and red bell peppers: Bring a mild sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the dish visually and in taste.
Onion: The foundation of savory depth, helping build the classic lasagna flavor profile right in your skillet.
Italian sausage: Adds hearty, seasoned protein packed with herbs and spices essential for that authentic lasagna zing.
Marinara sauce: A robust tomato base that ties all ingredients together with its tangy, garlicky notes.
Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: Boost flavor complexity with aromatic herbs and garlic punch that elevate every bite.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who like that subtle touch of heat that livens up this comforting dish.
Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and enhancing the overall flavor.
Bowtie pasta: A fun, sturdy shape that holds up beautifully in the sauce and collects every spoonful of cheesy goodness.
Ricotta and Mozzarella cheese: Creamy, melty textures that recreate the luscious cheese layers typical of lasagna without the fuss.
Parmesan cheese and parsley (garnishes): Fresh herbs and sharp cheese to finish with a burst of aroma and stunning visual appeal.

How to Make Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onions and both green and red bell peppers. Cook until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften, releasing their natural sweetness. This step builds a fragrant and flavorful base layer to your lasagna right in the skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Italian Sausage

Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook thoroughly until no longer pink, ensuring it’s broken into bite-sized pieces for even flavor distribution. When done, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy but retaining rich meaty taste.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasonings

Pour in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil to fully marry the flavors and prepare for the pasta.

Step 4: Simmer Pasta in Sauce

Once boiling, stir in the bowtie pasta, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure every piece absorbs the rich tomato sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

When the pasta is perfectly tender, stir in dollops of ricotta cheese to give creaminess throughout the dish. Next, sprinkle generous amounts of mozzarella on top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey topping that everyone loves in lasagna.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and add a final flourish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. This elevates the presentation and adds fresh herbal and savory notes to every bite. Now you’re ready to dig into a hearty, one-skillet lasagna masterpiece!

How to Serve Skillet Lasagna Recipe

The image shows a white plate filled with a layered pasta dish. The bottom layer has bowtie pasta covered in a rich, creamy orange-red sauce mixed with browned ground meat and small pieces of vegetables like mushrooms. The top layer has melted cheese and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan with fresh chopped parsley scattered on top. A metal fork rests on the right side of the plate. There is a green textured cloth below the plate and a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor, fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan cheese work wonders. These simple garnishes brighten the dish visually and add a lovely sharp, nutty touch that contrasts the creamy and saucy base perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your skillet lasagna with crisp green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. The fresh crunch and lightness from these sides balance the richness of the skillet lasagna, making for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve portions in individual mini skillets or oven-safe dishes to keep the cheese melty and warm on the table. Alternatively, sprinkle breadcrumbs toasted with garlic butter on top before melting the mozzarella to add a decadent crunchy topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover skillet lasagna into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more after resting, making the next day’s meal just as delightful.

Freezing

This Skillet Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, covered to keep moisture in and prevent drying out. Stir midway so cheese melts evenly and pasta warms through without becoming tough.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in the Skillet Lasagna Recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great here, you can substitute penne, rotini, or even broken up lasagna noodles. Just be mindful to adjust cooking time slightly if the pasta shape differs.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to maintain hearty texture and flavor without meat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the ingredients up to step 4 and refrigerate. When ready, add the cheese and finish cooking to enjoy fresh, melty lasagna flavors without the full prep time on serving day.

Do I have to use ricotta cheese?

Ricotta adds creaminess, but if you prefer, cream cheese or cottage cheese can be substituted. Each gives a slightly different texture but still delicious results.

What’s the best way to avoid the pasta from sticking?

Stirring occasionally while the pasta simmers in the sauce helps prevent clumping. Also, using enough sauce to cover the pasta ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the skillet.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Lasagna Recipe is such a joy to make and eat, combining speed, simplicity, and all the cozy flavors of traditional lasagna in one lovely pan. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers for lunch, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug any night of the week. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite!