The “Million Dollar Lasagna” is a super indulgent, creamy, and cheesy lasagna recipe that is packed with rich flavors. Here’s a basic version of this decadent dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground Italian sausage (or a mix)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions, or use no-boil noodles)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground meat (beef or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
- Add the egg, parsley, salt, and pepper, and stir until combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a small amount of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Lay down a layer of cooked lasagna noodles (3-4 noodles, depending on your dish size).
- Spread a generous layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Add a layer of meat sauce on top of the cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce) until you’ve used up all your ingredients. End with a layer of meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the top of the lasagna.
- Bake:
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent it from drying out) and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- You can make this ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
- For extra richness, you can add some ricotta cheese into the meat sauce layer as well.
- Add some spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the layers if you want to include veggies.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for the full meal experience!
Enjoy your indulgent Million Dollar Lasagna! 🍽️
