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Luxurious Million Dollar Lasagna with layers of cheese, meat, and sauce

Million Dollar Lasagna

A comforting and indulgent lasagna layered with juicy beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 375 kcal

Ingredients
  

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef Juicy and hearty, this protein forms the foundation of your lasagna.
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely diced Adds a beautiful depth to the sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Brings a wonderful aroma.
  • 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce Robust with herbs and tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Lends an Italian twist.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Enhances the flavor profile.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor balance.

Cheese Mixture

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese Forms the luscious layer.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melty and gooey.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty and nutty depth.
  • 1 large egg Serves as a binder.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness and color.

Lasagna Noodles

  • 12 pieces cooked lasagna noodles Creates the structure of the dish.
  • 2 cups additional shredded mozzarella cheese For topping.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Drain excess fat from the skillet.
  • Add finely diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.

Assembly

  • In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley; mix well.
  • Spread a layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Layer 4 lasagna noodles, then 1/3 of the ricotta mixture and 1/3 of the meat sauce. Repeat two more times, finishing with meat sauce.
  • Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Baking

  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  • Let lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the meat sauce for extra flavor. For creaminess, mix heavy cream into the ricotta layer.
Keyword Baked Pasta, Cheesy, Comfort Food, Family Meal, Lasagna