Some dinners feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening, and this Cottage Cheese Lasagna Skillet is exactly that kind of meal. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and promises a satisfying comfort with every bite.
I remember the first time I made this skillet. The scent of garlic and onions sizzling in olive oil pulled me closer to the stove. As the ground beef browned and marinara sauce bubbled, the anticipation grew. When I stirred in the cottage cheese, it transformed the sauce into something creamy and luscious. The tender pasta soaking up every flavor made it feel like a cozy Italian dinner without the fuss of layering noodles or waiting hours. Sitting down to eat, the melted mozzarella and Parmesan on top brought everything together like a perfect melody. It was a moment of simple joy that I wanted to experience again and again.
- One-pan convenience means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- The creamy cottage cheese adds a lighter, tangy twist to classic lasagna flavors.
- Ready in just over half an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and hearty without feeling heavy.
- Fresh basil on top adds a bright finish that lifts the whole dish.
If you’re worried about juggling too many pots or spending too long in the kitchen, this skillet makes it easy to create something special. It’s approachable, forgiving, and delicious every time.
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Cottage Cheese Lasagna Skillet
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and easy one-pan lasagna skillet featuring creamy cottage cheese, marinara sauce, and tender pasta, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups water
8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
Stir in marinara sauce, water, uncooked penne pasta, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet.
Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the cottage cheese.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheeses to melt.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
FAQ
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey or Italian sausage can work well, or for a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
Is it okay to use regular ricotta instead of cottage cheese? Yes, ricotta will provide a creamier texture but cottage cheese adds a nice tang and lightness that balances the dish.
Can this dish be frozen? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked? The pasta should be tender but still hold its shape. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking.
Any tips for making it spicier? Adding red pepper flakes when cooking the beef or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara can give it a nice kick.
Give this skillet a try next time you want dinner that’s both fuss-free and full of flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to save this recipe and make it again soon.