Description
Million Dollar Lasagna is a rich and creamy Italian-American baked dish featuring layers of savory meat sauce, a smooth ricotta and cream cheese blend, tender lasagna noodles, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This comforting main course is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering hearty flavors and a luscious texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained or oven-ready
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion until fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes. Remove from heat once done.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Assemble Lasagna: Using a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce evenly on the bottom. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the process: meat sauce, 3 noodles, remaining cheese mixture, and mozzarella. Finish with the last 3 noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to create a beautifully layered dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and has turned golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set for easier serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- This lasagna can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days prior to baking for convenience.
- For richer flavor, add an extra layer of provolone cheese or enhance the meat sauce by incorporating a splash of red wine.
