Million Dollar Lasagna

Ever dreamt of a lasagna so good it could make you swoon?

You’re in for a treat with this Million Dollar Lasagna! Imagine layers of cheesy goodness, savory meat, and mouthwatering marinara coming together to make a dish that’s the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, it’s filling, and spoiler alert: it’s totally family-approved! Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, so grab your apron and let’s dive in!

Why make this recipe

Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this lasagna:

• Easy Cleanup: One pan means fewer dishes to wash! Who doesn’t love a quick exit from kitchen duty?
• Family-Friendly: Kids and picky eaters will line up for a slice (or three).
• Affordable Ingredients: No need to break the bank for a delicious meal. 🙌

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 oz no-boil lasagna noodles
• 16 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to lasagna heaven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread with 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce, and 1/3 of the mozzarella.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with noodles and remaining meat sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

How to make Million Dollar Lasagna (Overview)

Making this lasagna is a breeze! Start by sautéing your beef and onion in a skillet—it’s like a warm hug that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas. Once you mix in the sauces and spices, you can get layering!
Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic—it adds that extra depth to the flavor. It’s all about the little things!

How to serve Million Dollar Lasagna

Slice into this cheesetastic masterpiece and watch the gooey mozzarella stretch! Serve it with a vibrant green salad or garlic bread for that extra crunch. 💚 The rich colors and delightful aroma will make everyone gather around the table faster than you can say "buon appetito!"

How to store Million Dollar Lasagna

Leftovers? No problem! Store any extra lasagna in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to dig in again, just pop it in the oven for a quick reheat.

Tips to make Million Dollar Lasagna

Here are a few insider tricks to elevate your lasagna game:

• Experiment with Cheeses: Swap some mozzarella for provolone for a fun twist!
• Layer Smart: Ensure your noodles are fully covered with sauce for the perfect texture.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some spinach or zucchini layers for added nutrition. Who’s counting? 😏

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Turn this into a vegan delight using plant-based beef, dairy-free ricotta, and cashew cheese! You can also add different herbs or spices like red pepper flakes for a kick or switch up the marinara with a pesto sauce for a fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. Just bake before you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Lasagna?
Yes! Freeze uncooked or cooked lasagna. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works wonders or try blending silken tofu for a dairy-free option.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Million Dollar Lasagna

Savor layers of cheesy goodness, savory meat, and mouthwatering marinara in this family-approved Million Dollar Lasagna that is easy to prepare and clean up.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meat and Sauce Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• to taste Salt and pepper

Lasagna Components

• 12 oz no-boil lasagna noodles
• 16 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt.

Assembly

1. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
2. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
3. Spread with 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce, and 1/3 of the mozzarella.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with noodles and remaining meat sauce.
5. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Baking

1. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Try swapping some mozzarella for provolone for a fun twist! You can add spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.