Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. This dish layers pasta, cheese, meat, and rich marinara sauce to create a satisfying meal that feeds the whole family. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a special occasion, this lasagna is sure to impress everyone who gets a taste.
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Why Make This Recipe
This lasagna recipe is perfect for those who love Italian flavors and hearty meals. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings. The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and three types of cheese creates a rich and delicious flavor that customers will love. Plus, you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the spices.
How to Make Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, half of the meat mixture, a third of the mozzarella cheese, and more marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and marinara sauce on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Serve Million Dollar Italian Lasagna hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad and garlic bread. You can also sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and color.
How to Store Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
If you have leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
- For a quicker version, use no-boil lasagna noodles.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the meat mixture for a less greasy lasagna.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Italian Lasagna by replacing the meat with a mix of your favorite vegetables and using plant-based cheese options.
FAQs
1. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble Million Dollar Italian Lasagna a day ahead. Just layer the ingredients and cover it with foil in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
2. Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce saves time and still tastes great. Choose a brand that you enjoy.
3. How do I get the cheese on top to be crispy?
For a crispy top, broil the lasagna for the last few minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- 1 lb Italian sausage Mild or spicy, casings removed.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Lasagna Components
- 12 pieces lasagna noodles Regular or no-boil noodles.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce Use store-bought for convenience.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Layering
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, half of the meat mixture, a third of the mozzarella cheese, and more marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and marinara sauce on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
