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Million Dollar Lasagna

Million Dollar Lasagna: The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food

Million Dollar Lasagna is a comforting Italian dish with rich, savory layers, ready in 30 minutes — ideal for weeknights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitution: Use turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Substitution: Crumbled mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 number Diced Onion No substitutes; enhances flavor profile.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh is best; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Substitution: Any jarred tomato sauce can be used.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Can use crushed tomatoes instead for a chunkier texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Substitution: Homemade blend of basil, oregano, and thyme.
For the Cheese Filling
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Substitution: Cottage cheese for a lighter filling, no significant flavor change.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Substitution: Mascarpone cheese for a different flavor.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Substitution: Plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Can use part-skim for less fat.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Can omit if not available; not essential but adds richness.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Million Dollar Lasagna
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage, along with the diced onion. Cook until no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  3. Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Then stir in marinara and tomato sauces along with Italian seasoning and simmer for 15 minutes.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  6. In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, then ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and meat sauce on top.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  7. Cover the top of the lasagna with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
    Million Dollar Lasagna
  9. Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
    Million Dollar Lasagna

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let it rest after baking and don’t overcook the noodles. Add your choice of veggies for additional nutrition.

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