Million Dollar Lasagna
Million Dollar Lasagna is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal. Packed with layers of meat, cheese, and rich sauces, it is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a special occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and is sure to impress your guests.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Million Dollar Lasagna because it combines flavors and textures that everyone loves. It’s a complete meal in one dish, and it’s great for leftovers too! The blend of cheeses and the savory meat sauce create a rich taste that satisfies your hunger. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week ahead.
How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna
Making Million Dollar Lasagna is simple and fun! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a tasty dish in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 package (8 oz) lasagna noodles, uncooked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and tomato sauce; simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Layer with uncooked lasagna noodles, followed by some of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers, ending with sauce on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna
Serve Million Dollar Lasagna hot, right from the oven. You can pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
How to Store Million Dollar Lasagna
To store leftover Million Dollar Lasagna, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Lasagna
- Make sure to drain the meat well to avoid a greasy lasagna.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
- You can prep the lasagna a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
- Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes after baking before slicing; it will hold its shape better.
Variation
You can try adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition. Alternatively, use different types of cheese, like gouda or cheddar, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Just follow the package instructions for layering.
2. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
3. How do I know when the lasagna is done?
The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
