Million Dollar Lasagna
A rich and comforting lasagna featuring creamy cheese layers, savory meat sauce, and tender noodles. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is easy to prepare in advance and freezes well, making it a practical and crowd-pleasing favorite.
Equipment
- 1 Large baking dish (9x13) For assembling and baking the lasagna.
- 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing the cheese mixture and meat sauce.
- 1 Large skillet For browning the meat and cooking the sauce.
- Optional Aluminum foil To cover the lasagna during baking.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb Ground beef Lean ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
- ½ lb Italian sausage Mild or spicy, depending on preference.
- 1 medium Onion Finely chopped for flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced fine for aroma.
- 1 can Crushed tomatoes (28 oz) Adds richness and acidity to the sauce.
- 1 jar Marinara sauce (24 oz) Store-bought or homemade works.
- 1 tsp Dried oregano Enhances Italian flavor.
- 1 tsp Dried basil Complements the tomato sauce.
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
For the Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz Ricotta cheese Use whole-milk ricotta for creaminess.
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella Divided for layering and topping.
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds salty, nutty flavor.
- 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
- 1 tbsp Dried parsley Fresh parsley can be used for brighter flavor.
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
For Assembly
- 12 sheets Lasagna noodles Cooked al dente or no-boil noodles for convenience.
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella For topping and layering.
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Sprinkled on top for a golden crust.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preparing the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavors.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth but avoid over-stirring.
Layering the Lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by half of the cheese mixture and a third of the meat sauce. Repeat layers: noodles, remaining cheese mixture, and another third of the meat sauce.
- Top with a final layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle with 2 cups shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan.
Baking and Resting:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set and flavors to meld.
Serving:
- Slice and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze unbaked or baked lasagna for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Substitutions: Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta or swap ground beef for ground turkey. No-boil noodles save prep time.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, covered with foil. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the essential ingredients for a creamy, cheesy lasagna?
- Lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a rich meat sauce are key. These create the creamy texture and cheesy flavor the dish is known for.
- Can I use pre-made sauces to simplify lasagna preparation?
- Yes, store-bought marinara or meat sauce works well. Reduce it on the stove to concentrate flavors and avoid excess moisture.
- How can I incorporate cream cheese into my lasagna recipe?
- Mix softened cream cheese with ricotta for a smoother, richer cheese layer. Blend thoroughly before layering.
- What are suitable cheese alternatives to muenster in lasagna?
- Mozzarella, provolone, or gouda work well. They melt easily and add mild flavor that complements other ingredients.
- What are the steps to creating a multi-cheese lasagna blend?
- Combine ricotta, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix soft cheeses first, then fold in shredded ones. Layer evenly between noodles and sauce.
- How do I adjust the recipe to serve a large number of guests?
- Multiply ingredient quantities and use a larger baking dish or multiple pans. Cook noodles and meat sauce in bigger batches, and layer carefully to maintain texture balance.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement: Add red wine or balsamic vinegar to the meat sauce for depth. Toast spices like oregano and basil before adding them to the sauce for extra aroma.
- Presentation: Serve slices neatly on plates with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for color. Include small bowls of extra sauce or grated Parmesan on the side.
- Leftovers: Use leftover lasagna in sandwiches or wraps. Pair with a drizzle of marinara sauce for a quick meal.
Plating and Garnishing
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan over the lasagna for freshness and color.
- Serving Style: Serve slices on warm plates with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. Include dipping sauces like marinara or Alfredo for variety.
- Pairings: Pair with a dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon to refresh the palate between bites.