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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic lasagna. But this isn’t just any lasagna – this is Million Dollar Lasagna, a dish so rich, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s worth every bite. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a comforting meal on a cold evening, this recipe is packed with layers of gooey cheese, creamy sauces, and perfectly seasoned meat. Let’s dive into this show-stopping dish and learn how to make it step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Of Million Dollar Lasagna
- Indulgent Layers: Each bite is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at family dinners or potlucks.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy it any day of the week.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this million-dollar masterpiece:
For the Meat Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Or substitute with ground turkey. |
| Italian sausage | 1/2 pound | Adds extra flavor. |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium | Adds sweetness and depth. |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | For a bold, aromatic base. |
| Marinara sauce | 4 cups | Use your favorite brand or homemade. |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | Thickens the sauce. |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tablespoon | A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Enhances the overall flavor. |
For the Creamy Cheese Layer:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 2 cups | Creamy and rich. |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 ounces | Adds a decadent texture. |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup | Adds a nutty, salty flavor. |
| Egg | 1 large | Helps bind the cheese layer together. |
| Parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons | For a fresh, herby note. |
For Assembly:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lasagna noodles | 12 sheets | Cooked according to package instructions. |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 4 cups | Melts beautifully. |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup | For topping. |
How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna
Step 1 – Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
Step 2 – Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley.
- Mix until smooth and well incorporated. Set aside.
Step 3 – Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
Step 4 – Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Lay 3-4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
- Spread a layer of the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers (meat sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, mozzarella) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the final layer.
Step 5 – Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Lasagna
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality cheese and marinara sauce make a big difference.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the lasagna a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
- Double the Recipe: Freeze one for an easy weeknight meal later.
- Add Vegetables: Layer in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
FAQs About Million Dollar Lasagna
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles work great! Just ensure you add extra sauce to keep them moist during baking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze the lasagna?
Yes, assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to reheat lasagna?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual portions.
Conclusion: A Slice of Comfort
Million Dollar Lasagna is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. With its indulgent layers of cheese, creamy sauce, and perfectly seasoned meat, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a lasagna that truly lives up to its million-dollar name. Serve it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!
Enjoy Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe