Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat and then stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Preheat Your Oven: While the meat sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Assemble the Lasagna: Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Next, place a single layer of uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Top the noodles with a layer of the cheese mixture, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Continue to alternate layers of noodles, cheese, and meat sauce until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the layered mixture.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Plate and Pair
To enhance your dining experience, serve your lasagna with a fresh side salad sprinkled with Italian herbs, or toasted garlic bread for that perfect crunch. Pair it with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or a light-bodied Pinot Noir, to balance the richness of the dish.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious lasagna later. Let the lasagna cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-5 days. If you want to freeze portions, cut them into single servings, wrap in plastic, and place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Pro Chef Tips for Success
- Try No-Boil Noodles: If you’re short on time, consider using no-boil lasagna noodles for an even quicker prep.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the lasagna to rest helps it maintain its shape when slicing, making for a prettier presentation.
Creative Variations to Experiment With
- For a creamy twist, consider adding a layer of pesto between the cheese mixture and meat sauce.
- Switch cheeses based on your preference—try goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Create a vegetarian version by substituting the meats with roasted vegetables and adding layers of spinach.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make Million Dollar Lasagna?
Preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour, with additional time to let it rest.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and assemble it the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate, then bake it right before serving.
What can I use for the canned sauces if I don’t have them?
You can blend fresh tomatoes, or use homemade tomato sauce. If you prefer a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
How do I store leftover lasagna?
Once cooled, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It can stay fresh for 3-5 days.
With this Million Dollar Lasagna recipe, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that will delight family and friends. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every last bite!
