Million Dollar Lasagna – A Rich and Creamy Layered Delight!
This Million Dollar Lasagna is a decadent dish that combines layers of creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions and is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 large skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 spoon or spatula
- 1 aluminum foil
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes 1 can
- 12 ounces tomato paste 2 cans (6 oz each)
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 12 noodles lasagna
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste fresh basil or parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- 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.
- Repeat layers (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella) two more times. For the final layer, top with remaining noodles, meat sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray first). Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
You can prepare the lasagna in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.