Million Dollar Lasagna
Layers of creamy ricotta goodness, savory ground beef, and melty mozzarella come together for a comforting, hearty meal that evokes nostalgic family dinner memories.
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450kcal
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef rich and hearty
- 1/2 onion finely diced onion aromatic and sweet
- 2 cloves minced garlic adding depth and flavor
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce tangy and zesty
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano fragrant and herbal
- 1 teaspoon dried basil complementing the sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese smooth and creamy
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese gooey and indulgent
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese sharp and nutty
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for a burst of freshness
Lasagna Assembly
- 12 pieces cooked lasagna noodles tender and comforting
- 2 cups additional shredded mozzarella cheese for topping, for that irresistible golden crust
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
Assembly
- Spread some meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by 1/3 of the ricotta mixture and 1/3 of the meat sauce. Repeat this process two more times.
- Top with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Finishing Touch
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Allowing the lasagna to rest is crucial for maintaining layers when cutting. Consider using whole wheat noodles or a plant-based alternative for healthier variations.