This lazy lasagna casserole is everything you love about lasagna with zero layering and one dish to wash. It comes together on the busiest weeknight and still tastes like something Nana pulled out of the oven.

If you love a cozy pasta bake, try my Gnocchi Lasagna and Million Dollar Spaghetti next!

I'll preface this by saying this one's truly a lazy lasagne casserole. You will find various versions around, but with this one, you don't have to faff around with layering or multiple bowls or pans.

All you need is an oven-proof skillet, and everything gets done in it. It really doesn't get any lazier than that.

It's made with ricotta, beef, a delicious tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella, all tumbled together with shell pasta and baked until the top goes golden and bubbly. Comfort food at its best, and I guarantee no one will complain the noodles aren't stacked in tidy little layers.

Why you'll love this lazy lasagna casserole

All the flavor of lasagna without any of the fussy layering
Made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
Feeds a hungry crowd and tastes even better the next day

What you'll need

Shell pasta -these catch the sauce and cheese in every bite, which is the whole reason I use them instead of other short pasta.
Olive oil - just enough to soften the onion and brown the beef.
Onion - I dice it finely so it melts right into the sauce.
Ground beef - I use lean so the casserole isn't greasy, but use whatever you like best.
Garlic powder - an easy shortcut without chopping a single clove.
Italian herb mix - this adds loads of authentic flavor, so don't be shy with it.
Marinara sauce - use a jar you'd happily eat straight off the spoon because it really makes a difference here.
Ricotta cheese - the creamy layer that makes it taste just like a real lasagna.
Fresh mozzarella - for that delicious melt!
Parmesan cheese - as always, it's best to grate your own for maximum flavor.

Pro tip

Make sure you turn off the heat before adding the ricotta cheese to avoid curdling.

How to make lazy lasagna casserole

This is a quick overview with step-by-step photos. See the recipe card below for full ingredients and instructions.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the shell two minutes less than recommended on the package. Drain and set aside.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Stir in the garlic powder, Italian herb mix, salt and black pepper, then pour in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, then turn off the heat.

adding spices to a Lazy Lasagna Casserole

Add the ricotta, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan and stir well until combined. Fold the drained pasta into the meat sauce.

Lazy Lasagna Casserole making instructions

Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella over the top. Cover with foil. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Substitutions and variations

Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey or a mix of beef and sausage. If you love a sausage-forward sauce, my Italian Sausage Bolognese is a great one to try!
Stir a couple of handfuls of chopped spinach into the ricotta for a nice pop of color.
If you'd like a saucier casserole, add an extra splash of marinara or a little of the reserved pasta water before baking.

Helpful tips

Make sure you taste the sauce before baking so you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Keep the dish covered with foil for the first 20 minutes in the oven so the cheese heats through gently instead of browning before the middle is hot.
Let it rest for a good 10 minutes out of the oven before serving so the sauce settles and you can cut cleanly into it.

What to serve with lazy lasagna casserole

Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette to mop up every bit of sauce
A crisp green salad with a sharp vinaigrette
Simple roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini or green beans
Buttery garlic knots for a full Italian-American spread

Leftovers and storage

Leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven or in a microwave, adding a splash of water if it looks a little dry.
Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

More cozy recipes you'll love

If you've tried this lazy lasagna casserole recipe, please rate it and leave a comment below! I'd love to hear how it turned out.

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