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Million Dollar Lasagna

A creamy, layered lasagna filled with savory meats, rich cheeses, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Choose sweet or spicy according to your preference.
  • 1 cup onion, chopped Yellow or white onions work best.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Toasting the garlic enhances its flavor.
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can) Can substitute with diced tomatoes for more texture.
  • 12 ounces tomato paste (2 cans, 6 oz each) Adds thickness to the sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper Black pepper is preferred.
Layering Ingredients
  • 12 noodles lasagna Regular or no-boil noodles can be used.
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese if desired.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Shredded fresh mozzarella is recommended.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use fresh for better flavor.
  • 1 bunch Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional) Enhances presentation and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
Assembly
  1. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  2. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
  3. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-fourth of the remaining meat sauce, and one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
  4. Repeat layers (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella) two more times.
  5. For the final layer, top with remaining noodles, meat sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (spray foil with cooking spray first). Bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

You can prepare this lasagna the night before and refrigerate it before baking for an easier cooking process. Adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach between layers can enhance nutrition.