Here’s a decadent Million Dollar Lasagna recipe that’s loaded with rich, cheesy goodness and layers of savory meat sauce. Perfect for a crowd or special occasions!
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, helps cut acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 16 oz ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles (boiled and drained, or use no-boil noodles)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet or pan, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and sugar. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the noodles.
- Add a layer of meat sauce, then sprinkle some shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat with another layer of noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and cheeses.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Garnish:
- Optional: sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Tips:
- You can make the sauce and cheese mixture ahead of time to save time on assembly day.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a meatless version, substitute the meat sauce with a hearty marinara sauce or roasted vegetable mix.
Enjoy your Million Dollar Lasagna! It’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let me know if you want tips on customizing it!