Million Dollar Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that has made its way into the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Known for its hearty layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melting mozzarella cheese, this Million Dollar Lasagna takes the traditional recipe to new heights with an indulgent blend of flavors. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this lasagna will be the star of any meal.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Ricotta Layer:

• 16 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for layering)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

1. Make the Meat Sauce:

Cook the meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), sugar, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Layer:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, spreading them out to prevent sticking.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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. Top with 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with some of the shredded mozzarella cheese and a little Parmesan.

Repeat two more layers (noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan).

For the final layer, top with the remaining noodles, the last of the meat sauce, and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Bake:

Cover the lasagna with foil (to prevent sticking, either spray the foil with cooking spray or use parchment paper). Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut.

History of Lasagna

Lasagna has a rich history that dates back to ancient Rome. The Romans had a dish called “Lagana,” which consisted of layers of pasta, often served with meats and sauces. Over the centuries, lasagna evolved, especially in Italy, where it became a staple of Italian cuisine. The modern version of lasagna, as we know it today, originated in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Naples. Lasagna’s popularity grew in the United States with the influx of Italian immigrants, and today, it’s enjoyed in various forms worldwide.

Benefits of Million Dollar Lasagna

This delicious lasagna provides a hearty balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. The ground beef and sausage are great sources of protein, while the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses provide calcium and vitamins. The tomatoes in the sauce offer antioxidants like lycopene, which are known to support heart health. With its rich flavors and satisfying layers, Million Dollar Lasagna is a perfect dish for gatherings, offering both nutritional value and indulgent taste.

Formation of Layers

Lasagna’s charm lies in its layering technique. The combination of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The layering process allows each component to meld together during baking, creating a harmonious dish where every bite offers a taste of everything.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Lasagna is the perfect dish for anyone looking to impress at the dinner table. With its hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and cheesy goodness, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned its “million-dollar” status. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this lasagna will become a beloved classic in your cooking repertoire.

Lasagna Lovers

If you’re a lasagna lover, you’re in for a treat with this recipe. The rich and hearty flavor, paired with the creamy layers, makes it a dish worth savoring. Every bite is a testament to the timeless appeal of lasagna—comfort food at its finest. Share it with your loved ones, and you’ll make lasting memories with every slice.

Nutrition Information

While lasagna is undoubtedly delicious, it is also packed with nutrients. A single serving of Million Dollar Lasagna typically contains:

• Calories: 350-400 per serving
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sodium: 600-800mg