Ingredients

For the Lasagna:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the ground beef and garlic.
• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 85/15) – Provides the meat base for the lasagna, with a good fat content to keep it juicy.
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant, savory aroma to the beef mixture.
• 2 teaspoons salt-free Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs such as basil, oregano, and rosemary, essential for authentic Italian flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt, more to taste – For seasoning the meat and sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more to taste – Enhances the savory flavors of the dish.
• 24-ounce jar marinara sauce – The tomato-based sauce that brings the lasagna together. Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce.
• 1 cup water – Helps to thin out the sauce for cooking the noodles.
• 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces – Using broken lasagna noodles means you don’t need to pre-cook them, making the dish even easier.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds creaminess and richness to the lasagna.
• 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (more for serving) – Adds depth and a nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese – Provides the essential gooey, melted cheese effect that lasagna is known for.
• Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish – A fresh touch that adds brightness and color to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally to brown the beef on all sides. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and softened.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Sauce

To the beef mixture, stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Pour in the marinara sauce and water, stirring everything together until well combined. The water helps loosen up the sauce, making it the right consistency to cook the noodles.

Step 3: Add the Lasagna Noodles

Add the uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them into smaller pieces if necessary. Stir the noodles into the sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the noodles cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a little more water if the sauce begins to thicken too much. Keep an eye on it to ensure the noodles cook evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While the noodles are cooking, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and mozzarella cheese in a small bowl. Stir them together until well mixed. This cheese mixture will give the lasagna a creamy, cheesy filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

Once the noodles are tender and fully cooked, stir the cheese mixture into the pot. Gently fold it in, making sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dish. The heat from the pasta and sauce will melt the cheese, creating a creamy, comforting consistency. If necessary, adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is combined and the cheese has melted into the sauce, turn off the heat. Garnish the lasagna with a sprinkle of fresh basil to add color and freshness. Serve hot, with additional Parmigiano-Reggiano for sprinkling if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Based on 6 servings, approximate values:

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes! You can substitute the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles. Be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free noodles may require slight adjustments.

Q2: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! To make this a heartier, more veggie-packed meal, you can add chopped vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the garlic and beef to incorporate them into the dish.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this lasagna a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the lasagna on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You may need to add a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
This lasagna freezes very well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up on the stovetop over low heat until hot.

Tips for Making the Best One-Pot Lasagna

1. Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: The marinara sauce is a key component of the flavor in this dish. Choose a high-quality jarred sauce or make your own for the best taste.
2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Since you’re cooking the noodles directly in the sauce, be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Stir frequently to ensure the noodles cook evenly and don’t stick together.
3. Customize the Cheese: While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano are the traditional choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different twist.
4. Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture when cooking the garlic.
5. Layer the Cheese: To achieve that classic lasagna texture, be sure to mix some of the cheese into the pasta, then reserve some for sprinkling on top before serving. This helps create a delicious cheesy topping.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezing: For longer storage, this one-pot lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Lasagna with Ground Beef is the perfect solution when you’re craving the comfort of lasagna without the time and effort of traditional preparation. With its savory beef, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, the one-pot cooking method makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this lasagna recipe will become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy a plateful of delicious lasagna in a fraction of the time, and don’t forget the fresh basil garnish for that final touch of freshness.