If you love the comforting flavors of classic lasagna but want a fuss-free, speedy meal, this One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine all the rich tastes and textures of traditional lasagna, from the savory meat sauce to the creamy cheeses, coming together in a single pot without the layers and long bake times. It’s an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something hearty and satisfying without a mountain of cleanup. Plus, it’s incredibly comforting and soul-warming, perfect for sharing with family or friends any night of the week.

One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, creamy texture, and that perfect balance of hearty and cheesy. Each one plays a key role in making this One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe shine, from the savory beef and garlic to the luscious ricotta that brings a smooth finish.

1 pound ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty flavor base that makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
½ small onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the sauce.
16 ounces lasagnette rice pasta or similar shape (uncooked): The perfect pasta shape to soak up all that delicious sauce without becoming mushy.
16 ounces marinara sauce: Brings bright tomato flavor and a lovely tangy note that ties everything together.
4 Tablespoons garlic (minced): Elevates the umami with a wonderfully fragrant punch.
2 teaspoons salt + more or less to taste: Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
4 cups water or broth: Helps cook the pasta perfectly while infusing flavor (broth boosts richness).
8 ounces whole milk ricotta: Offers creaminess and a gentle tang that balances the meatiness.
1 cup low-moisture mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic, gooey lasagna texture.
Optional Parmesan cheese for serving: Adds a salty, nutty finish with every bite for the cheese lovers.

How to Make One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook everything together for about 1 to 2 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and fragrant, breaking the meat into small pieces with your spoon. This step builds the foundation of flavor and makes sure your pasta sauce has that hearty meatiness we all crave. Once browned, carefully drain any excess liquid to keep the dish balanced and prevent it from becoming too watery.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Next, toss in the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the water or broth right into the same pot. Give everything a good stir so the pasta is submerged and evenly coated by that flavor-packed sauce. This is the moment where all elements start mingling to come together in a way that captures all the essence of a traditional lasagna without the separate layers.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring your mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 11 to 13 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook perfectly while absorbing all those savory flavors without turning mushy. Keep an eye on it toward the end and test the pasta for that perfect al dente bite that holds its shape perfectly in the final dish.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses

When the pasta is cooked to perfection, remove the lid and stir in the creamy whole milk ricotta and the shredded mozzarella cheese right into the pot. The heat from the pasta instantly melts the cheeses, creating a luscious, velvety sauce that feels just like the cheesy layer in a classic lasagna. This step truly brings the recipe to life with a rich texture and that irresistible pull-apart cheese allure.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Now it’s time for the best part—serving your amazing one pot lasagna pasta! Grab a ladle and dish out generous portions onto plates or bowls. If you like, sprinkle a little freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top to add a salty, nutty boost. This One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and warm, inviting you to dive into those comforting flavors with each bite.

How to Serve One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Adding simple garnishes can elevate this dish even further. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkling of chopped parsley add a splash of vibrant green color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the rich tomatoes and cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add smoothness and a glossy finish that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. Don’t forget the Parmesan topping if you love a little extra savory punch.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads like arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce, while roasted or steamed veggies like zucchini or broccoli complete the meal with nutritious balance and extra texture contrasts. These sides keep the meal satisfying and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins, topped with a little extra mozzarella, then broiled for a few minutes to get a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, present it family-style in a large bowl garnished with herbs and cheese for a warm, communal feel that invites sharing and comfort. Even layering portions in a glass bowl shows off the rich red sauce and creamy cheese layers beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it an excellent recipe for meal prepping or for those nights when you want a quick reheat and a satisfying dinner without any extra work in the kitchen. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully overnight, so the next day’s meal tastes even better.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers of this One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe by placing them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen portions will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your stored pasta gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. If using the oven, cover with foil and warm at 350°F until heated through and bubbly. Leftover One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe tastes delicious reheated, making it a great make-ahead comfort meal.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed since turkey can be milder in flavor.

What pasta can I substitute for lasagnette rice pasta?

Any short pasta that can hold sauce, such as penne, rigatoni, or ziti, will work wonderfully. The key is using a pasta shape that traps the sauce well without disintegrating during cooking.

Is it necessary to use ricotta cheese?

Ricotta adds a beautiful creaminess and light tang that balances the meat and tomato sauce. If you can’t find it, you could substitute with cottage cheese blended until smooth or even cream cheese, although the flavor profile will change slightly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to add body and flavor. Using vegetable broth will keep it fully vegetarian while maintaining the savory base.

How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?

This One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe is mild, focusing on savory and cheesy flavors, but feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to suit your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

Your kitchen is about to get a whole lot cozier with this One Pot Lasagna Pasta Recipe. It’s a meal that delivers all the deep, familiar flavors of lasagna with the ease and speed that modern life demands. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving something comforting on a busy night, this dish promises satisfaction, warmth, and smiles at the table. Give it a go—you might just find it becomes your new weeknight superstar!