Welcome to the world of Million Dollar Lasagna! This recipe is rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. With just a few premium ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses any guest. Whether you’re a beginner or a kitchen pro, I’ll guide you through each step. Get ready to elevate your lasagna game and enjoy every savory layer. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: This lasagna features a rich and savory blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, and aromatic herbs that create a comforting and mouthwatering dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: With layers of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, every bite is a cheesy delight that will satisfy your cravings.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This lasagna can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
- Feeds a Crowd: With generous servings, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make Million Dollar Lasagna, gather these key items:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Premium Ingredients for Elevation
Using high-quality ingredients can boost the taste of your lasagna. Here are some ideas:
- Use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a creamy texture.
- Opt for homemade tomato sauce for richer flavors.
- Try organic ground beef and sausage for better quality.
- Add fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried for vibrant taste.
Optional Ingredients for Variations
You can customize your lasagna with these optional items:
- Spinach or kale for added greens.
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Zucchini or eggplant for extra veggies.
- Different cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for unique textures.
Feel free to mix and match these options to create your perfect Million Dollar Lasagna!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Noodles
First, we need to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for a perfect bake. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add nine lasagna noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite. After cooking, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Creating the Meat Sauce
Next, we focus on the meat sauce. In a large skillet, drizzle some olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add one chopped onion and three minced garlic cloves. Sauté these until they become fragrant and soft. Now, add one pound of ground beef and one pound of Italian sausage. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Once the meat is cooked, stir in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and two 15-ounce cans of tomato sauce. Season the mixture with two teaspoons of dried basil, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors well.
Assembling the Lasagna Layers
Now for the fun part: assembling the lasagna! In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place three cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Next, scoop half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. To make this mixture, combine one 15-ounce container of ricotta cheese, one large egg, a pinch of salt, and half of one cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl, mixing until smooth.
After the ricotta, sprinkle a layer of three cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Repeat these layers: noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce. Finish with noodles on top and pour the remaining meat sauce over them. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking and Serving Instructions
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. You’re looking for golden, bubbly cheese. Once done, take the lasagna out and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like. Serve slices on warm plates, and enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect the Meat Sauce
To make the meat sauce stand out, use both ground beef and Italian sausage. This mix gives layers of flavor. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft. The smell will be amazing! Next, add the meats. Cook until they are browned. Don’t forget to drain excess fat for a lighter sauce. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper for taste. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.
Best Practices for Cooking Noodles
Cooking your noodles right is key to a great lasagna. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the lasagna noodles carefully. Cook them until they are al dente, which means they should still have a slight bite. This helps keep the noodles firm in the oven. After cooking, drain them well and lay them flat to prevent sticking. You can even toss them with a little olive oil for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Presentation
To serve your Million Dollar Lasagna beautifully, slice it on a warm plate. This keeps the cheese from cooling too fast. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It adds color and flavor. You can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavor of your lasagna. Add them to your meat sauce or sprinkle on top before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Layering Technique: Ensure your layers are even for a well-balanced bite. Use a spatula to spread sauces and cheeses evenly between layers for consistent flavor in every slice.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
Variations
Vegetarian Million Dollar Lasagna
You can make a great vegetarian version of this lasagna. Start by skipping the meats. Use a mix of veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Sauté them until soft. Then, layer them just like the meat. Use the same ricotta and cheese mix. This way, you get a rich and tasty dish without meat.
Seafood Million Dollar Lasagna
For a seafood twist, use shrimp or crab. Cook the seafood lightly in a pan. Mix it into the ricotta filling. You can keep the meat sauce as is or replace it with a light white sauce. This adds a unique flavor to the lasagna. Top it with fresh herbs for a fresh taste.
Alternative Cheese Options
You can switch up the cheeses in this recipe. Try using goat cheese or feta for a tangy touch. Cream cheese can also add a rich texture. Mix and match your favorite cheeses to find what you love. Each option gives a new flavor to the lasagna.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftovers
To store your leftover Million Dollar Lasagna, first let it cool. Once cooled, cut it into portions. Use an airtight container to keep the layers intact. You can also wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. The key is to keep air out to avoid drying.
Freezing and Reheating Tips
For longer storage, freeze the lasagna. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. You can also place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Best Practices for Maintaining Flavor
To keep the flavors fresh, store the meat sauce and cheese layers separately if possible. This helps avoid sogginess. When reheating, add a splash of tomato sauce or a bit of water. This keeps the dish moist. For the best taste, enjoy it within a week of making it.
FAQs
What makes this lasagna “million-dollar”?
This lasagna earns its name from rich flavors and layers. It combines beef, sausage, and cheese. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, savory taste. I use fresh herbs, like basil and oregano, to boost the flavor even more. The secret is in the layers; each bite is a rich experience. This dish feels special and luxurious, which is why it stands out.
Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this lasagna ahead of time. Make it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you are ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as usual. If you freeze it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This makes it easy to enjoy on busy days.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making lasagna?
Avoid these common mistakes for perfect lasagna:
- Overcooking noodles: Cook them al dente, as they will soften more in the oven.
- Too much sauce: Balance sauce and cheese layers for the best texture.
- Skipping rest time: Let it sit for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set.
- Not covering while baking: Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Remove it toward the end to brown.
By keeping these tips in mind, your lasagna will turn out great every time!
You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step methods to make million-dollar lasagna. We discussed tips to perfect your meat sauce and cook noodles like a pro. You explored variations for dietary needs and how to store leftovers properly.
This recipe is easy to follow, and you can impress anyone with it. Whether you choose traditional or an exciting variation, your lasagna will shine on any table. Enjoy creating your delicious masterpiec
Million Dollar Lasagna
Ingredients
- 9 noodles lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
- 1 15-ounce container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and pepper
- optional fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, a pinch of salt, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, a layer of mozzarella cheese, and a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, sauce) one more time, ending with noodles and remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
