Prepare to be amazed by the ultimate “Million Dollar Lasagna”! This decadent dish is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with its layers of rich, creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, this recipe from Better Homes and Gardens is the best homemade lasagna you’ll ever taste. Get ready to savor every bite of this culinary masterpiece that’s
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Best Million Dollar Lasagna
Description
This Million Dollar Lasagna boasts layers of rich meat sauce, a creamy cheese filling, and perfectly cooked pasta. Its an unforgettable meal, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to impress, leaving everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is smoothly incorporated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Lay 3 lasagna noodles over the meat sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
- Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers: 3 lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta cheese mixture, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and the remaining meat sauce.
- Top with the final 3 lasagna noodles and the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
- Let the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, simmer the meat sauce for at least 30 minutes to develop a rich flavor. Dont be afraid to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. Lasagna can be assembled a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before baking. Serve with a simple side salad and crusty bread.
