Million Dollar Lasagna
This million-dollar lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, featuring ultra-creamy layers of cheese and a hearty meat sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef Use 80/20 for a juicy, rich sauce or substitute with Italian sausage.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Yellow or white onions for subtle sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce Choose a robust brand with basil and garlic.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Dried seasoning is best; mix of basil, oregano, and thyme can be used.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning.
For the Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz ricotta cheese Whole milk ricotta for extra creaminess.
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded For the layers in the lasagna.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds a salty flavor.
- 1 whole egg Binds the cheese mixture.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Brightens the dish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For a flavor boost.
- 1 tsp onion powder For additional flavor.
Pasta and Topping
- 12 pieces lasagna noodles, cooked and drained Use classic or oven-ready noodles.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded For the topping.
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any extra fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, 1.5 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Assemble Your Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer 4 noodles over the sauce, followed by a third of the ricotta mixture and a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat for the second and third layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Add the Mozzarella Topping
- Cover everything with the remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella.
Bake the Lasagna
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cool and Serve
- Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Letting the lasagna rest helps for beautiful slices. Adjust flavors with a splash of red wine or red pepper flakes based on preference.