Million Dollar Italian Lasagna

Introduction

There’s something about a warm, cheesy lasagna that can instantly uplift the spirits. Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Whenever I prepare this dish, the enticing aroma wafting through the kitchen draws everyone in, sparking conversations and, of course, hunger. With layers of savory ground beef, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses, this recipe has earned its reputation for being irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this lasagna never fails to impress.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Million Dollar Italian Lasagna isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and nostalgia. Here’s why you’ll love whipping this up:

• Satisfying Flavor Profile: The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a robust meat sauce that’s packed with flavor. When paired with creamy cheeses, it hits all the right notes for a crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, celebrating a holiday, or need something hearty for a weeknight dinner, this lasagna is versatile enough to fit any setting.
• Kid-Approved Delicacy: There’s a good reason why kids can’t resist this lasagna—it’s cheesy, meaty, and downright delightful!

“This lasagna was a hit at my family gathering! Everyone went for seconds, and I had no leftovers!”— satisfied home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating Million Dollar Italian Lasagna might seem like a task, but the process is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Cook the Meat: Start by browning the ground beef and sausage, infusing your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
2. Make the Sauce: Combine meats with marinara, tomatoes, and seasonings for a rich sauce full of flavor.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Blend the creamy cheeses for a luxurious filling that balances the savory meat.
4. Layer It Up: Assemble the layers in a baking dish, alternating between noodles, meat sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake and Serve: Pop it in the oven for a bubbling, golden delight.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To make this delicious lasagna, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.1 pounds ground beef (80/20)
• 12.3 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1.7 cups tomato sauce
• 2.1 ounces tomato paste
• 0.5 ounce granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1.5 teaspoons fennel seeds (optional)
• 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 16 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
• 4.2 ounces full-fat sour cream
• 1 large egg
• 2.1 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 7 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 12 uncooked lasagna noodles (about 8.8 ounces)
• 8.8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping
• 1.4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated, for topping
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Feel free to swap the beef for turkey or use a vegetable-based meat substitute for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking apart and cooking until browned throughout.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook on medium-low until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Stir in marinara, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, optional fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat, simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese with ricotta until smooth. Incorporate sour cream, egg, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, parsley, and garlic powder until fully combined.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until just al dente, approximately 9 minutes. Drain and arrange noodles flat on a clean towel or parchment.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Spread a layer of meat sauce in a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Lay down four noodles, slightly overlapping. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles and one third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat with another layer of noodles, the remainder of the cheese filling, and another one-third of the sauce. Finish with a final noodle layer and the remaining sauce.
8. Top with 8.8 ounces shredded mozzarella and 1.4 ounces grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the dish tightly with foil, tenting it to prevent sticking. Bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
11. Allow to cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving your Million Dollar Italian Lasagna, consider these delightful pairing ideas:

• Salads: A fresh arugula or Caesar salad adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
• Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
• Wine Pairings: A bold red wine, like Chianti or Barbera, beautifully complements the savory flavors of the dish.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your delicious lasagna, you might wonder how to store leftovers. Here’s the best way to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 375°F until heated through.
• Safety First: Always ensure that your lasagna reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Pro Chef Tips

To elevate your Million Dollar Italian Lasagna, consider these expert tips:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Instead of dried herbs, try fresh oregano and basil for a brighter flavor.
• Mix Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or add a sprinkle of crumbled feta for a unique twist.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the lasagna to sit after baking helps the layers set, making for cleaner slices.

Creative Twists

Want to make your Million Dollar Italian Lasagna even more unique? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meat with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a colorful, veggie-packed dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Cheesy Extra: Layer in some cream cheese or mascarpone between the noodles for an ultra-creamy texture.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to prepare this lasagna?
   Preparation takes about 30 minutes, with an additional 45-50 minutes for baking.

2. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the lasagna, but do not bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

3. Is it safe to freeze lasagna?
   Absolutely! As mentioned earlier, make sure to wrap it properly to prevent freezer burn, and consume within three months for the best quality.

With its layers of flavor and comforting heartiness, Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So grab your ingredients and prepare for an indulgent treat that’s worth every delicious bite!

Million Dollar Italian Lasagna

---

• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Meat

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A warm, cheesy lasagna filled with layers of savory ground beef, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses that delights family and friends.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.1 pounds ground beef (80/20)
• 12.3 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1.7 cups tomato sauce
• 2.1 ounces tomato paste
• 0.5 ounce granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1.5 teaspoons fennel seeds (optional)
• 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 16 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
• 4.2 ounces full-fat sour cream
• 1 large egg
• 2.1 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 7 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 12 uncooked lasagna noodles (about 8.8 ounces)
• 8.8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping
• 1.4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated, for topping
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking apart and cooking until browned throughout.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook on medium-low until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Stir in marinara, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, optional fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat, simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese with ricotta until smooth. Incorporate sour cream, egg, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, parsley, and garlic powder until fully combined.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until just al dente, approximately 9 minutes. Drain and arrange noodles flat on a clean towel or parchment.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Spread a layer of meat sauce in a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Lay down four noodles, slightly overlapping. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles and one third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat with another layer of noodles, the remainder of the cheese filling, and another one-third of the sauce. Finish with a final noodle layer and the remaining sauce.
8. Top with 8.8 ounces shredded mozzarella and 1.4 ounces grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the dish tightly with foil, tenting it to prevent sticking. Bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
11. Allow to cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor and let the lasagna rest after baking for cleaner slices.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: lasagna, Italian, comfort food, cheesy, meat sauce