One-Pot Meat Lasagna
A comforting one-pot dish of layers featuring rich ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef For richness; swap with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth; you can replace it with shallots for a milder flavor.
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced A must for depth; try roasted garlic for a sweeter touch.
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes Provides essential sauciness; use canned diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs to capture that classic lasagna flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for enhancing the flavors.
Noodles and Cheese
- 12 oz lasagna noodles No need to pre-cook! Fresh or no-boil noodles can also work well.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese Creamy goodness; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute if desired.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to mix with cheddar for a flavor boost.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional) A bright finish for an aromatic lift.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Break the lasagna noodles into thirds and gently push them down into the sauce.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and basil (if using), and dollop this mixture over the noodles.
- Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let your one-pot meat lasagna simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Replace the lid and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini. Add fresh herbs like basil just before serving to brighten the flavors.