Name: Million Dollar Lasagna – A Rich and Creamy Layered Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound Italian sausage; 1 cup onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can); 12 ounces tomato paste (2 cans, 6 oz each); 2 teaspoons dried basil; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 12 lasagna noodles; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; fresh basil or parsley for garnish, optional

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Indulge in the decadent flavors of Million Dollar Lasagna, a rich and creamy layered dish that is sure to impress. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a flavorful and hearty filling.
Quick prep time allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This lasagna is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Ingredient Notes:

Ground beef and Italian sausage: provide a rich and savory base for the lasagna.

Onion and garlic: add depth of flavor to the meat sauce.

Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste: create a robust and thick sauce.

Dried basil and oregano: infuse the dish with aromatic Italian flavors.
Lasagna noodles: form the layers of this classic dish.

Ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese: provide creamy and cheesy layers.

Fresh basil or parsley: optional garnishes for a pop of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet.

Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and egg.

Begin layering the lasagna in a baking dish: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and cheeses.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese.
Cover with foil and bake until bubbly and golden.

Let it rest before serving, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.

Helpful Tips:

Cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set before serving.

Swap out the ground beef and Italian sausage for ground turkey or a vegetarian meat alternative for a lighter version of this dish.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use high-quality cheeses for a rich and gooey lasagna.
Layer the lasagna evenly to ensure each bite has a perfect balance of ingredients.

Consider adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Million Dollar Lasagna with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Million Dollar Lasagna – A Rich and Creamy Layered Delight!

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, cover the lasagna tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze this lasagna? Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Fresh herbs will add a burst of flavor to the dish.
How can I make this lasagna vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef and sausage with your favorite meatless crumbles or extra veggies.

Can I assemble this lasagna ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

Conclusion:

Treat yourself to the luxurious flavors of Million Dollar Lasagna and wow your family and friends with this show-stopping dish. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your feedback – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation!