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Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe: Comfort Food That Delivers Delight

Experience the Million Dollar Lasagna that transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary dish packed with flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Choose traditional or no-boil based on convenience.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Provides hearty flavor; swap for ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 lb Italian Sausage Infuses depth and spice; consider plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Opt for low-sugar versions for a healthier choice.
  • to taste Italian herbs Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Crushed.
  • to taste Pepper
For the Cheese Layer
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Rich and creamy; cottage cheese can be used for a lighter version.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Adds luscious creaminess; low-fat options may affect texture slightly.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Delivers tang and creaminess; can be omitted.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Offers sharp flavor; fresh is always best!
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Creates that iconic gooey top; stick with whole milk for optimal melt.
Optional Add-Ins
  • to taste Vegetables Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini; feel free to mix in your favorites.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add crushed garlic and Italian herbs with salt and pepper, cooking until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer on low for 10 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and a pinch of salt. Mix vigorously until well blended and smooth.
  3. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the cheese mixture, and then another layer of meat sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce.
  4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Ensure it is evenly distributed for the best bubbling effect as it bakes.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers firm up for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For best results, layer wisely and avoid overloading. Check noodle doneness with a toothpick. Can be made ahead and frozen for later use.

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