Pesto Skillet Lasagna: A Quick and Flavorful One-Pan Meal
Pesto Skillet Lasagna combines the rich flavors of traditional lasagna with the fresh zest of pesto, all prepared conveniently in a single skillet. This dish offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- ½ cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the baby spinach and sauté until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the spinach from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden, forming a roux. Gradually pour in the warmed whole milk, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce.
Incorporate Pesto and Noodles: Stir in the pesto and kosher salt into the sauce, mixing well. Reduce the heat to low and add the broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Combine Ingredients: Return the sautéed spinach to the skillet. Add dollops of ricotta cheese and sprinkle the grated mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt, about 3-5 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted and is bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.
Tips for Success
Pasta Selection: Using no-boil lasagna noodles broken into pieces allows for even cooking and easy incorporation into the skillet.
Pesto Variations: While traditional basil pesto is recommended, feel free to experiment with other types such as spinach or arugula pesto to suit your taste preferences.
Cheese Choices: Whole-milk ricotta and mozzarella provide a creamy texture and rich flavor; however, part-skim versions can be used for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
This Pesto Skillet Lasagna pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to maintain the creamy consistency.
Enjoy this innovative and time-saving take on lasagna, bringing together the classic comfort of Italian cuisine with the fresh flavors of pesto in a convenient one-skillet preparation.
For a visual guide on preparing a similar dish, you might find this video helpful: