why make this recipe
Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is a delicious, hearty meal that brings comfort and joy to the dining table. Its layers of rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and savory meat make it a standout dish for family gatherings or special occasions. This lasagna is packed with protein and can feed a crowd. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time and rewarming for easy weeknight dinners.
how to make Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Ingredients :
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
- Place 3 noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half the meat mixture and a layer of mozzarella.
- Repeat layers, topping with remaining noodles and sauce, then mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
how to serve Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Serve the lasagna while hot, garnished with fresh basil on top. Cut it into square portions to make serving easy. Pair it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for freezing.
tips to make Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
- Make sure to drain the fats from the meat to keep your lasagna from getting greasy.
- Let your lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially in the case of marinara sauce and cheese.
variation
You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to add flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute turkey for the ground beef and Italian sausage.
FAQs
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! No-boil noodles can save time, and they will still turn out delicious.
How do I know when my lasagna is done?
Your lasagna is done when it is bubbly and golden on top. You can insert a knife in the center; it should come out hot.
Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
- Place 3 noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half the meat mixture and a layer of mozzarella.
- Repeat layers, topping with remaining noodles and sauce, then mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.