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Lasagna is a beloved dish in Italian cuisine, celebrated for its rich layers of pasta, cheese, and savory meat sauce. This Classic Million Dollar Lasagna elevates the traditional recipe by introducing a delightful mixture of flavors that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. The term "Million Dollar" suggests an extravagant twist that ensures every bite feels luxurious, and it's a fitting name for a dish that is both impressive and appetizing.

Classic Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe: A Comforting Italian Favorite

This classic lasagna features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart. Cook until browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped basil. Mix until smooth.
  • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then half of the ricotta mixture, followed by a layer of meat sauce.
  • Repeat with another 4 noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another layer of meat sauce. Finish with the last 4 noodles, topping with the remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  • Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

Let the lasagna rest before slicing for easier serving.
Keyword cheese, comfort food, Italian, lasagna, meat, pasta