Lasagna is a timeless classic that many people love, but traditional recipes can often be heavy and time-consuming. This Skillet Lasagna with Cottage Cheese and Fresh Herbs offers a lighter, protein-rich alternative that retains all the delicious flavors of traditional lasagna while being quicker and healthier. By using part-skim cottage cheese instead of ricotta, lean ground beef for protein, and fresh herbs for enhanced flavor, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz short pasta (reginetti, mafalda, or broken lasagna noodles)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 (28 oz) can Tuttorosso crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken bone broth
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup part-skim cottage cheese (Good Culture recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Make the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken bone broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Assemble the lasagna: Stir in the cooked pasta and combine well. Reduce heat to low. Spoon dollops of cottage cheese over the mixture, then sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella.
- Melt the cheese: Cover and cook for 5 minutes, until the cheese melts.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: ~400 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Why Choose Skillet Lasagna?
Skillet lasagna is a fantastic alternative to the traditional baked version for several reasons:
- Quick & Easy: Unlike traditional lasagna that requires layering and long baking times, this version comes together in just one pan in about 35 minutes.
- Less Cleanup: Since everything is cooked in a single skillet, there are fewer dishes to wash.
- Healthier Ingredients: The use of part-skim cottage cheese instead of ricotta significantly reduces fat and calories while increasing protein.
- Flexible & Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, whether you prefer leaner meat, more vegetables, or a different type of pasta.
The Benefits of Using Cottage Cheese Instead of Ricotta
Many people automatically reach for ricotta when making lasagna, but cottage cheese is an excellent substitute, especially if you’re looking for a healthier option. Here’s why:
- Higher Protein Content: Cottage cheese is packed with protein, making this dish more filling and muscle-friendly.
- Lower in Fat & Calories: Compared to whole-milk ricotta, part-skim cottage cheese has significantly less fat while still providing a creamy texture.
- Rich in Calcium & Nutrients: Cottage cheese provides essential nutrients like calcium, B vitamins, and probiotics, which support digestion and bone health.
- Better Texture for Skillet Lasagna: Since it blends well with other ingredients, it creates a creamy, rich consistency without being overly heavy.
How Chicken Bone Broth Elevates the Flavor
A unique ingredient in this recipe is chicken bone broth, which replaces traditional water or stock when making the sauce. This small change adds:
- A Deep, Savory Flavor: Bone broth gives the sauce a rich, homemade taste without the need for long simmering.
- Extra Collagen & Nutrients: Bone broth is packed with collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support gut health, skin, and joints.
- More Protein: Since bone broth naturally contains protein, it helps boost the protein content of the dish.
Choosing the Right Pasta for This Dish
Since this is a skillet version of lasagna, traditional long lasagna noodles aren’t necessary. Instead, using short pasta shapes allows for easier mixing and even cooking. Some great options include:
- Reginetti & Mafalda: These ribbon-like pasta shapes mimic traditional lasagna noodles but are easier to stir in a skillet.
- Campanelle: With its fluted, cone-like shape, it holds sauce well while adding texture.
- Farfalle (Bowtie Pasta): A fun and common choice that works well in one-pan pasta dishes.
- Broken Lasagna Noodles: If you want to keep the essence of traditional lasagna, breaking the noodles into smaller pieces before cooking is a great option.
How to Make This Dish More Nutritious
If you’re looking to boost the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following:
- Add More Vegetables: Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onion and garlic to add fiber and vitamins.
- Use Whole Wheat or Chickpea Pasta: Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber, while chickpea pasta increases protein and keeps it gluten-free.
- Reduce Sodium: Opt for low-sodium crushed tomatoes and broth to better control salt intake.
- Make It Lighter: If you’re watching calories, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use part-skim mozzarella.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Skillet Lasagna
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Some great options include:
- A Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Garlic Bread or Whole Wheat Bread: A slice of crusty bread is great for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or roasted carrots can add color and balance to your plate.
- A Glass of Red Wine: If you enjoy wine, a light Italian red like Sangiovese pairs beautifully with this dish.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love batch cooking or need a quick meal solution for busy nights, skillet lasagna is a great meal prep option.
- Stores Well in the Fridge: This dish stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Portion it into individual servings and freeze for up to 3 months for easy reheating.
- Easy to Reheat: Just warm it in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Conclusion:
This Skillet Lasagna with Cottage Cheese is a game-changer for lasagna lovers who want a quicker, healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. With protein-packed cottage cheese, nutrient-rich bone broth, and fresh herbs, this dish is flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan meal delivers all the comfort of traditional lasagna with less effort and more health benefits.
