One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe

Savory One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe That Wows Every Time

Crafting a delectable one pot lasagna pasta feels like culinary magic unfolding in your kitchen.

Layers of rich flavors meld together effortlessly without complicated techniques.

Pasta lovers will appreciate how simple ingredients create something extraordinary.

Comfort meets convenience with this streamlined approach to a classic dish.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of creamy cheese and robust tomato sauce.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction describe this weeknight dinner solution perfectly.

Jump into this recipe and transform your ordinary meal into a memorable feast.

Why One Pot Lasagna Pasta Is a Weeknight Hero

  • This lasagna pasta eliminates multiple pots and complicated steps, reducing kitchen cleanup and cooking time dramatically.
  • Swap ground beef for turkey, add extra vegetables, or adjust spice levels to suit family preferences without compromising delicious flavor.
  • Kids and adults will love the cheesy, saucy pasta that delivers classic lasagna taste in a streamlined, approachable format perfect for busy weeknights.
  • From start to finish, this recipe takes under 30 minutes, providing a gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for One Pot Lasagna Pasta

Proteins:
  • Ground Beef, Sausage: Hearty meat base that adds rich flavor and protein to the dish. Choose lean meat for a healthier option.
Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic: Classic flavor foundation that provides depth and savory notes. Fresh garlic brings more intense taste than pre-minced.
  • Italian Seasoning, Red Pepper Flakes: Herb blend and spice that create authentic Italian flavor profile. Adds warmth and subtle heat.
Liquid Base:
  • Crushed Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, Broth: Creates a robust sauce with layered tomato flavor. Helps cook pasta and develop sauce consistency.
Pasta:
  • Lasagna Noodles: Core ingredient that transforms the dish into a one-pot meal. Break noodles to help them cook evenly.
Cheese Group:
  • Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parmesan: Provides creamy texture and sharp, tangy cheese flavors. Fresh cheese melts better and tastes more vibrant.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds bright color and fresh herb finish. Completely optional but enhances presentation.
Cooking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Helps sauté ingredients and prevent sticking. Extra virgin olive oil offers better flavor.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that balance and enhance overall taste.

How to Cook One Pot Lasagna Pasta with Ease

Step 1: Brown the Protein

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium flame. Add ground beef and break it into small crumbles while cooking. Eliminate excess fat by draining.

Step 2: Develop Flavor Base

Toss chopped onions into the pot and cook until translucent. Introduce minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let aromatics release their fragrance.

Step 3: Create Robust Sauce

Incorporate:
  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Broth
  • Tomato paste

Blend ingredients and bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Directly in Sauce

Add broken lasagna noodles into the simmering sauce. Ensure noodles are completely submerged. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta reaches perfect tenderness and sauce thickens.

Step 5: Introduce Creamy Cheese Layer

Dollop ricotta across the surface. Sprinkle generously with:
  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan

Cover and allow cheese to melt completely.

Step 6: Finish and Present

Scatter fresh chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately with crusty bread or crisp salad.

Best Tips for One Pot Lasagna Pasta

  • Maximize Meat Flavor: Brown ground beef or sausage thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavors that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Prevent Pasta Sticking: Break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces and stir frequently during cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent noodles from clumping together.
  • Cheese Melting Trick: Let the cheese topping rest for a few minutes after melting to allow it to set slightly, creating a more cohesive and appealing presentation.
  • Customize Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a different protein profile without compromising the recipe's core flavors.
  • Control Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance, or omit completely for a milder version that's kid-friendly and suitable for sensitive palates.

Storage Tips for One Pot Lasagna Pasta

  • Transfer leftover lasagna pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
  • Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently to maintain pasta texture. Add a little water or broth to keep the dish moist and prevent sticking.
  • Pack cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairings for One Pot Lasagna Pasta

  • Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, meaty pasta. Its acidity cuts through the cheese and balances the robust tomato sauce perfectly.
  • Serve crispy garlic bread or toasted ciabatta slices alongside the lasagna pasta. These crunchy sides soak up the delicious sauce and provide a textural contrast to the creamy dish.
  • Prepare a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness and cut through the lasagna's heaviness. The peppery greens and tangy dressing create a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pasta.
  • Offer a cold Italian beer like Peroni or Moretti, which cleanses the palate and provides a light, crisp complement to the hearty one-pot meal. Its subtle hoppy notes enhance the overall dining experience.

Creative Variations on One Pot Lasagna Pasta

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meatless version. Use vegetable broth instead of regular broth to enhance the vegetarian profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Spicy Southwestern Spin: Add diced green chiles, swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese. Incorporate black beans or corn for extra southwestern flair.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables. Use lean ground turkey or chicken and increase vegetable content for a lighter, protein-packed meal.

FAQs About One Pot Lasagna Pasta

  • Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lasagna noodles with other pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta type’s package instructions.

  • Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground meat with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, mushrooms, or vegetarian meat substitutes. The recipe will still be delicious and hearty.

  • How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of regular ground beef for extra heat.

  • Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can partially prepare the dish by cooking the meat and sauce in advance. When ready to serve, reheat and add pasta and cheese. This makes it convenient for meal prep or busy weeknights.

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One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe

One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe


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4.6 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy One Pot Lasagna Pasta delivers Italian comfort straight to dinner tables with layered flavor and minimal cleanup. Cheesy noodles melded with rich marinara promise a delicious weeknight meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef or Italian sausage

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 cup (250 grams) ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Vegetables:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Liquids and Sauces:

  • 1 can (28 ounces/800 grams) crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cups (720 milliliters) chicken or beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Pasta and Herbs:

  • 8 ounces (225 grams) uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare a generously sized pot or deep skillet, introducing olive oil and heating over medium flame to create an ideal cooking environment.
  2. Introduce ground beef or sausage into the heated oil, methodically breaking the meat into delicate fragments while ensuring complete browning. Remove any accumulated excess fat.
  3. Incorporate diced onions into the meat, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic essence for approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Infuse the mixture with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, stirring briefly to awaken their intense flavors and release their fragrant qualities.
  5. Pour crushed tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste into the pot, gently stirring to create a harmonious sauce base. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer.
  6. Strategically layer broken lasagna noodles into the sauce, ensuring complete submersion. Cover the pot and allow the pasta to cook, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking, until noodles become tender and sauce reaches desired consistency.
  7. Fine-tune the flavor profile with appropriate salt and pepper seasoning.
  8. Delicately distribute ricotta cheese across the pasta surface, followed by an even sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  9. Cover the pot, permitting the cheeses to melt and create a luxurious, bubbling topping.
  10. Conclude by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and serving immediately, optionally accompanied by a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread.

Notes

  • Customize meat options by swapping ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for different dietary preferences.
  • Break lasagna noodles carefully to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping during the one-pot process.
  • Control sauce consistency by adjusting broth quantity – less liquid creates a thicker sauce, more creates a soupier texture.
  • Enhance flavor depth by adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of dried oregano during the sauce-building stage.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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