A delicious and hearty Million Dollar Lasagna that combines layers of pasta, meat, and cheese for an irresistible dish.
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Yield:Serves 8
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
12 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces marinara sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese and a third of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining noodles, meat sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
Add a layer of spinach or kale for extra nutrients and flavor.