Million Dollar Lasagna

This Million Dollar Lasagna is a rich and indulgent twist on the classic dish. With layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is hearty enough for a crowd and tastes like a million bucks!

Ingredients

(Serves 8–10)

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 16 oz (450g) ricotta cheese
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)

For the Layers:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese (in addition to cheese mixture)
• Extra parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
3. Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce.
4. Sprinkle with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce, shredded mozzarella) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and shredded mozzarella on top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Freeze It: Freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 20–30 minutes.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese and ricotta mixture adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with meat, cheese, and pasta for a comforting meal.
• Perfect for Crowds: A show-stopping dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or celebrations.

Enjoy this Million Dollar Lasagna and impress your family and friends with its rich, comforting flavors. Let me know if you’d like more indulgent recipe ideas! 🍝✨🧀