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Million Dollar Lasagna: A Family Favorite Worth Every Penny

Lasagna has long been a comforting classic in many households, but the Million Dollar Lasagna takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness! This dish is not only creamy and flavorful but also a crowd-pleaser that brings the family together around the table. What makes this lasagna shine is its layers of meaty goodness, rich cheese, and zesty marinara sauce that meld together to create a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite. Did you know that lasagna is believed to date back to ancient Greece, where they layered pasta with sauce and meat in a dish called "Laganon"? Fast forward to today, and you’ll find countless variations. This specific version, the Million Dollar Lasagna, adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank! It’s easy to prepare, takes about an hour from start to finish, and is considered a family favorite. It’s every bit as inviting as the ever-popular baked ziti, but with a heartier, layered texture that’s bound to impress. So, if you’re ready to turn your kitchen into an Italian trattoria, let's dive into this fantastic recipe!
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 3 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage together. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
  • In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
  • Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
  • To assemble, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Lay 4 noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the meat mixture, half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Repeat the layers: noodles, meat, ricotta, and mozzarella until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Allow lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
  • What to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna With
  • To complete your meal and enhance the flavors of Million Dollar Lasagna, consider pairing it with a simple side salad drizzled with vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread for that perfect crunch. A side of roasted vegetables can also add a pop of color and nutrition to your dinner table. For beverages, a nice glass of red wine or sparkling water can help cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Million Dollar Lasagna
  • Here are some insider tips to elevate your Million Dollar Lasagna experience:
  • Ingredient Substitutions: If you want to cut down on calories, try using low-fat cheese or specialized pasta like whole grain or veggie noodles.
  • Timing Adjustments: Make sure you don’t skip the cooling time; this helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.
  • Common Mistakes: Be careful not to overcook your noodles; they should be slightly firm as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • Got leftovers? Don’t fret! Million Dollar Lasagna keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to save it for later, this dish also freezes well! Just wrap it in foil or plastic wrap; it’ll stay tasty for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
  • With simple ingredient swaps and a little patience, you can create a lasagna that deserves all the love it gets. Happy cooking, and enjoy your Million Dollar Lasagna journey with family and friends!