This delicious vegetarian skillet lasagna recipe is a delicious one-pan meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a quicker, simpler alternative to traditional lasagna because you don’t have to layer it all up, but contains the same comforting flavors. 

In this recipe, I’ve used lentils to substitute the meat typically used in a lasagna. You could also use a vegetarian mince alternative if you prefer. Similar lentil recipes that you should try if you like this one are my easy vegetarian shepherd’s pie, and this delicious lentil bolognese.

Another fun way to enjoy pasta is this creamy tortellini soup – so good!

Ingredient Notes

Scroll down to the recipe card for the exact quantities you need for this recipe. Below, I’ve included the ingredients used plus some notes on each for potential substitutions.

More Variations & Substitutions

– Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, use vegan ricotta, vegan mozzarella, and a plant-based cream. Skip the Pecorino or use a vegan cheese alternative. You can also swap the red wine with vegetable broth if you can’t find one that’s suitable for vegans.

– More Veggies: Add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.

– Layer up: If you want more traditional lasagna layers, go ahead! You could still use all the components of this recipe, just layering the ricotta, lentil sauce, and lasagna sheets instead.

How To Make This Delicious Vegetarian Skillet Lasagna

Here’s a quick overview of the steps to make this easy skillet lasagna. The full, detailed instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this page:

Step 1. Sauté the onion and garlic 

Heat your olive oil in a skillet, then add the diced onion and sauté until softened (5-7 minutes, stirring often). Once the onion has turned translucent and softened, then stir in garlic, tomato paste, and seasonings.

Step 2. Deglaze the pan

After letting the tomato paste cook off for a minute or two, pour in the red wine to lift all those flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan (this is known as deglazing the pan!). If you’re not using red wine, you could use balsamic vinegar instead for a similar effect.

Step 3. Add tomatoes, stock, and lentils

Stir in your tinned diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, and lentils. This forms the base of your rich, hearty sauce. If you’re using tinned plum tomatoes, crushing them down with the back of your spoon to create a smoother sauce.

Step 4. Simmer with lasagna sheets

Add the broken lasagna sheets, stirring to prevent them from sticking. It’s important you make sure the lasagna sheets are evenly distributed and not stuck together in stacks, or they’ll cook altogether and the end result won’t be very appetizing! Simmer until the sheets are nearly tender.

Step 5. Stir in ricotta, then top with cheese and grill

Once the pasta is almost cooked, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese. Then, scatter mozzarella and Pecorino over the top, and then grill it until golden and bubbly.

Top Tips \ Chef’s Notes

– Stir Frequently: As the lasagna sheets cook, stir the skillet frequently to prevent them from sticking together.

– Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The lasagna sheets will continue cooking in the residual heat after you take the skillet off the heat, so it’s better to remove them while they’re slightly undercooked.

– If you don’t have a skillet: Make the lasagna in any pan you have, then transfer it to an ovenproof dish before topping it with the cheese and grilling. You’ll have one more pan to wash up, but it still works the same!

Storage

Store any leftover skillet lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen the sauce before warming it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. 

This dish also freezes well—just store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

How To Serve?

Serve your skillet lasagna hot, topped with fresh basil or parsley and a little extra Pecorino cheese if you like. Pair it with a side salad, some garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

FAQs