Description
Hearty One-Pot Lasagna Bowl
Ingredients
8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups chicken or beef broth
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
Cook the Meat:
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil until softened. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce and broth. Add the broken lasagna noodles and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Add Cheesy Goodness:
Dollop ricotta cheese over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the lasagna into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy this comforting meal!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, gather all your ingredients and a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Break the lasagna noodles into 1-2 inch pieces directly over the pot to contain the mess. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat. Pour in the marinara sauce and broth, stirring to combine. Add the broken noodles, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bowl is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to add freshness. For a true restaurant-style touch, serve with warm, crusty garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping. A glass of robust red wine, like a Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the rich flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pot wonder is made by browning meat with onions and garlic, simmering broken lasagna noodles directly in a sauce of marinara and broth, and finishing with a trio of melty cheeses. The entire process takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, with minimal cleanup required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes, you can. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for doneness after 10 minutes of simmering.
How can I make this vegetarian? Simply omit the ground meat and use a plant-based ground “meat” alternative, or add a cup of chopped mushrooms and spinach when sautéing the onions.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, as the noodles will continue to absorb liquid and become softer upon storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
What can I use instead of ricotta? Cottage cheese (small curd) is an excellent substitute. For a richer flavor, try mascarpone cheese.
Is the broth necessary? Yes, the broth is crucial for cooking the noodles and creating the right saucy consistency. Water will result in a less flavorful dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not breaking the noodles: Leaving them whole makes them difficult to cook evenly and eat from a bowl.
- Overcrowding the pot: Use a pot large enough to allow the noodles to simmer in a single layer for even cooking.
- Skipping the broth: Using only marinara sauce will make the dish too thick and risk burning.
- Overcooking the noodles: Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark to avoid mushy pasta.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Lasagna Bowl delivers all the beloved, comforting flavors of traditional lasagna without the lengthy assembly and cleanup. It’s a practical, family-friendly recipe that proves a decadent, cheesy pasta dinner can be on the table in well under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.