How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you a recipe that’s about to become a staple in your kitchen: Million Dollar Lasagna. This dish is a game-changer for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals that are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that never fails to impress, and the best part? It’s packed with layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your apron and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for quick family dinners or feeding a crowd
• Layers of flavor that will make it a new favorite
• Easy to prepare and feeds everyone
• Comforting and satisfying for any occasion

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible Million Dollar Lasagna:

• No-boil lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups marinara sauce (or your homemade tomato sauce)
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or beef and sausage mix). Cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Cover it with a layer of lasagna noodles.
7. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce, and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
8. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a top layer of noodles, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and the remaining Parmesan.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.
12. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve. Enjoy your Million Dollar Lasagna!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your Million Dollar Lasagna turns out perfectly every time:

• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese, for the best flavor.
• Let the lasagna rest before slicing to keep it from falling apart.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
• Make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

How to Serve

Million Dollar Lasagna is a hearty dish that’s perfect on its own, but it’s even better with a few sides. Try serving it with a fresh green salad or a classic Olive Garden Salad for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread is also a great addition for sopping up all that delicious sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

There you have it—a rich, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing lasagna recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this Million Dollar Lasagna is the perfect choice. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious results!