Million Dollar Lasagna
A sumptuous and comforting lasagna with layers of creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for impressing loved ones.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef juicy and flavorful
- 1/2 onion diced onion adds sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic minced, gives aroma
- 24 oz marinara sauce convenient and robust
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano herbaceous and aromatic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil freshly fragrant
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ricotta Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese creamy and luxurious
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese melt-in-your-mouth goodness
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese sharp and savory
- 1 egg egg binds the mixture
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for freshness
Lasagna Assembly
- 12 pieces cooked lasagna noodles the perfect foundation
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for a luscious topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes, and drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
Assembly
- In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 2 cups shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
- Spread a small amount of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, and 1/3 of the meat sauce. Repeat two more times, finishing with meat sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Consider adding fresh vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a healthy twist. For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.