If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful dinner that comes together in just one pan, the Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake is about to become your new favorite go-to. This recipe combines the best parts of pizza and lasagna with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table with ooey-gooey cheese, savory sauce, and layers of pasta and pepperoni all cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and simplifying your dinner prep.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight meals or last-minute guests.
- Loaded with flavor: Combines classic pizza toppings with hearty lasagna noodles for a delicious twist you won’t find anywhere else.
- Kid-friendly comfort food: The cheesy, saucy layers always win over picky eaters and adults alike.
- Flexible ingredients: You can easily swap toppings or add veggies to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing any magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake uses a handful of simple, widely loved ingredients that come together beautifully. Each contributes rich flavor, gooey texture, or a burst of color that makes this dish an instant winner.
- Lasagna noodles: Regular or no-boil noodles both work, providing the perfect layered base for this skillet bake.
- Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for rich tomato flavor that ties everything together.
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts perfectly for that classic melty appeal.
- Pepperoni slices: Adds that unmistakable pizza zest and a bit of savory spice.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy ricotta adds a smooth texture and a mild, tangy contrast to the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle provides nuttiness and an extra hit of cheesy goodness on top.
- Italian seasoning: Brings herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to punch up the flavor.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Garlic and onion: Aromatics that build the flavor foundation and add depth.
Variations for Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake
The beauty of the Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to add a veggie boost, go meatless, or switch up the cheese, here are some tasty ideas to customize your skillet.
- Vegetarian option: Swap pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a fresh, garden-inspired bake.
- Meat lover’s version: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to double down on the meaty goodness.
- Spicy twist: Toss in red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for just the right kick.
- Cheese variations: Try provolone, fontina, or even gouda for a different cheese vibe.
- Gluten-free modification: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to keep it friendly for gluten sensitivities.
How to Make Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop the garlic and onion, shred the mozzarella, and measure out all your cheeses and sauce. If using no-boil noodles, set them aside; if not, boil them until al dente and drain.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics and sauce
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the marinara sauce, stir to combine, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 3: Layer the skillet lasagna
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the skillet. Add a single layer of lasagna noodles, breaking them as needed to fit. Dollop ricotta evenly over the noodles, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and pepperoni slices, then repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous mozzarella and Parmesan topping.
Step 4: Bake until bubbly and golden
Cover the skillet loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from getting too brown. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Let your Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake rest for about 5 minutes once out of the oven. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Grab a spatula and scoop generous portions, ready to delight everyone at your table.
Pro Tips for Making Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake
- Use oven-safe skillet: Cast iron or any ovenproof pan lets you go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles finish baking in the sauce and stay perfectly tender.
- Layer evenly: Spread cheese and pepperoni slices evenly to ensure every bite has balanced flavor.
- Cover when baking: Prevents the cheese from browning too quickly and drying out.
- Let it rest: Gives the filling time to thicken up for clean serving slices.
- Try fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Serve Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake
Garnishes
Add a pop of color and fresh herb aroma with chopped fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile nicely.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty skillet bake with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is also a perfect match for dipping into the sauce and soaking up every cheesy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve straight from the skillet placed on a heatproof trivet for a rustic, family-style approach. For individual servings, ladle portions into small ramekins or bake in mini skillets to wow guests with personalized presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it easy to reheat single servings throughout the week.
Freezing
This Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or foil pans and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 20 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave portions on medium heat, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dry noodles?
Fresh lasagna noodles work wonderfully in this recipe and often require less cooking time, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni or substitute with plant-based sausage or a medley of your favorite vegetables.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap out the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives available in most stores, and use olive oil or vegan butter to sauté the aromatics for a delicious dairy-free version.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No problem! Assemble the layers in a baking dish and bake as directed, just be cautious when transferring between stovetop and oven to prevent spills.
How spicy is the Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake?
The base recipe is mild and kid-friendly, but feel free to add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to give it a fiery kick suited to your taste.
Final Thoughts
The Pizza Lasagna Skillet Bake is truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners, combining the irresistible flavors of pizza and lasagna without complicated prep or mess. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this delicious skillet bake sooner. So grab your skillet, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into a cheesy, comforting dish everyone will rave about!