If you’re searching for a recipe that brings the comfort of Italian cuisine right to your home, look no further than this Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet. This innovative take on traditional lasagna combines the best elements of garlic bread with layers of savory meats, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses. The result? A dish that’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even a cozy gathering with friends.
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. In just under an hour, you can whip up a hearty meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The combination of textures and flavors—from the crispy edges of the garlic bread to the melty cheese and savory sauce—creates a truly irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet
- Comforting flavors: Combines the beloved tastes of lasagna and garlic bread for ultimate satisfaction.
- Easy to make: Quick preparation and cooking time means less fuss in the kitchen.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite proteins or add more veggies for a personalized twist.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Easily adaptable for plant-based diets without losing flavor.
- Great for leftovers: Perfect for meal prep; reheat easily and still taste fresh.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet, it’s essential to prepare your workspace. Start by gathering all your ingredients so you can work efficiently. Make sure to have a large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients, a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula for mixing and serving, and, most importantly, a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or a large oven-safe skillet to bake everything to perfection.
You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a sharp knife for chopping, and a cutting board to keep your prep clean. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking when you’re finished assembling the lasagna. It makes the whole process go smoothly and ensures that your dish comes out wonderfully baked with bubbling cheese and crispy edges.
Ingredients
- 1 large baguette or Italian loaf, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound ground beef, Italian sausage, or plant-based alternative
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Toss the cubes of baguette or Italian loaf in this mixture until they are evenly coated. Once done, set the seasoned bread cubes aside while you prepare the meat sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the diced onion. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until the meat is browned and the onion softens. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Next, stir in the minced garlic, marinara sauce, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld nicely before removing it from the heat.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
While the meat sauce is simmering, take another bowl and mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. This rich cheese mixture will add creaminess and flavor throughout the layers of your lasagna skillet.
Step 4: Layer and Assemble
Return to your skillet with the meat sauce. Remove about half of the sauce from the skillet and set it aside. Layer half of the garlic bread cubes over the remaining meat sauce in the skillet, spreading them out for even coverage. Scoop dollops of the ricotta mixture over the bread cubes, and then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Spoon your reserved meat sauce evenly over the cheese, then repeat these layers with the remaining bread cubes, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover your skillet loosely with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and the top to turn golden brown. Once finished, let your Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet cool for about 10 minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with additional chopped parsley for a touch of freshness!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground beef with turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for added nutrition.
- Spices: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for a spicier kick.
Cooking Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and lean ground meat.
- Let the skillet rest before slicing; this helps the layers set and makes servings easier.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic knots or a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips
- Feel free to mix and match cheeses; adding provolone or fontina can enhance the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
- Protein: About 35 grams
- Sodium: Roughly 800 milligrams
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the meat with a plant-based alternative such as lentils or a vegan meat crumbles.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage for an extra punch.
Can leftovers be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagna skillet before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this lasagna skillet?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet is a fun and hearty twist on a classic dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe invites you to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen without the stress. Whether you are preparing a cozy dinner or looking for a dish that is crowd-pleasing, this skillet meal hits all the right notes. We encourage you to give it a try, experiment with your own variations, and enjoy those lovely cheesy bites with your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how it turned out in the comments!
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Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet is a fun and hearty twist on a classic dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 large baguette or Italian loaf, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound ground beef, Italian sausage, or plant-based alternative
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Toss the cubes of baguette or Italian loaf in this mixture until they are evenly coated. Once done, set the seasoned bread cubes aside while you prepare the meat sauce.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the diced onion. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until the meat is browned and the onion softens. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Next, stir in the minced garlic, marinara sauce, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld nicely before removing it from the heat.
- While the meat sauce is simmering, take another bowl and mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. This rich cheese mixture will add creaminess and flavor throughout the layers of your lasagna skillet.
- Return to your skillet with the meat sauce. Remove about half of the sauce from the skillet and set it aside. Layer half of the garlic bread cubes over the remaining meat sauce in the skillet, spreading them out for even coverage. Scoop dollops of the ricotta mixture over the bread cubes, and then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Spoon your reserved meat sauce evenly over the cheese, then repeat these layers with the remaining bread cubes, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover your skillet loosely with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and the top to turn golden brown. Once finished, let your Cheesy Garlic Bread Lasagna Skillet cool for about 10 minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with additional chopped parsley for a touch of freshness!
Notes
Let the skillet rest before slicing; this helps the layers set and makes servings easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
- Sodium: Roughly 800 milligrams
- Protein: About 35 grams