Healthy One-Pot Skillet Lasagna

Quick, Nutritious, and Full of Flavor in Just 30 Minutes

Lasagna is a classic comfort food, beloved for its rich, cheesy layers and hearty meat sauce. But traditional lasagna often requires multiple dishes, long baking times, and hours of prep. That’s where this Healthy One-Pot Skillet Lasagna shines. In just 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful, balanced, and satisfying meal that tastes indulgent but is much lighter and simpler to make.

This recipe uses lean ground meat, a mix of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, low-fat cheeses, and farfalle pasta for a quick, all-in-one skillet version of traditional lasagna. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family, this one-pot approach minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.

It’s ideal for those seeking a healthier twist on comfort food without compromising on taste. Below is a full guide, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, FAQs, and nutritional highlights.

Ingredients

Protein

• 1 lb lean ground beef (or substitute ground turkey or chicken)

Pasta

• 8 oz dry farfalle pasta (bowtie)

Sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

Cheese

• 2/3 cup fat-free cottage cheese
• 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese

Seasonings

• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 1 ½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 Tbsp dried onion flakes
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Garlic

Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds. Garlic forms the aromatic base that enhances all flavors in the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat

Add ground beef (or turkey/chicken) to the skillet along with oregano, onion flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Break the meat into small crumbles to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.

Tip: For a leaner meal, drain any excess fat after cooking.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Pasta

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and uncooked farfalle pasta. Mix thoroughly to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cottage Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the fat-free cottage cheese, distributing it evenly without overmixing. This adds creaminess and protein without heavy fat.

Step 5: Top with Mozzarella

Sprinkle part-skim mozzarella cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover again for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts completely.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot directly from the skillet. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired for added freshness and presentation.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips and Variations

1. Protein Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
2. Pasta Alternatives: Whole wheat farfalle or gluten-free pasta can be used to meet dietary needs.
3. Cheese Swaps: Low-fat ricotta or part-skim mozzarella can replace cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
4. Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to sneak in extra nutrition.
5. Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving – Serves 6)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 450mg

This meal offers a balanced ratio of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a wholesome choice for families or individuals watching calories without sacrificing flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this in advance?
Yes. Cook the skillet lasagna completely and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.

2. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, though the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, textured vegetable protein, or a plant-based meat alternative.

4. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Any small pasta shape, such as penne, rotini, or shells, works well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

5. How do I make it creamier?
Stir in a tablespoon of part-skim ricotta or a splash of milk along with the cottage cheese for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

The Healthy One-Pot Skillet Lasagna is the ultimate weeknight comfort food without the hassle. With lean protein, hearty pasta, tomato-rich sauce, and creamy cheese, it’s a balanced, flavorful, and nutritious meal in just 30 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for:

• Busy weeknight dinners
• Family-friendly meals
• Meal prepping for the week

It’s easy to make, easy to clean up, and customizable to your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick solo meal, this skillet lasagna delivers all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a healthier, faster, one-pot version.