Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Million Dollar Lasagna

  • Author: Chef Mia

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

Scale
  • 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

  1. In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. 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.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is smoothly incorporated.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  7. Lay 3 lasagna noodles over the meat sauce.
  8. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
  9. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
  10. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the mozzarella cheese.
  11. Repeat layers: 3 lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta cheese mixture, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and the remaining meat sauce.
  12. Top with the final 3 lasagna noodles and the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  13. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  14. Bake for 30 minutes.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.