Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

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Absolutely — here is a polished and complete version following your exact requested structure, with the wide line removed for:

(Million Dollar Lasagna
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage
1 medium onion, diced)

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

Introduction

Million Dollar Lasagna is a hearty, layered pasta dish known for its rich, indulgent combination of savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s famously called “million dollar” because its flavor tastes luxurious — like a million bucks — while still using budget-friendly ingredients. This dish is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or anytime a comforting baked classic is desired.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Lasagna traces its origins to Italy, particularly Emilia-Romagna, where layered pasta and ragù became an important part of regional cuisine. In the United States, lasagna evolved into a comfort-food favorite, often enriched with extra cheese, cream, or sausage. “Million Dollar Lasagna” became popular in home cooking and online communities as a decadent twist on traditional lasagna — blending ricotta filling with cream cheese or sour cream for added richness.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

  • 16 oz ricotta cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

For Assembly:

  • 12 lasagna noodles (cooked or oven-ready)
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Additions

  • Spinach or kale (chopped into cheese layer)
  • Crushed red pepper for heat in the sauce
  • Mushrooms or bell peppers sautéed with onion
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Gluten-free pasta alternative

Tips for Success

Allow the lasagna to rest 10–15 minutes before slicing to hold its shape
Layer ingredients evenly for the perfect bite in each slice
Mix cream cheese fully to avoid lumps in cheese layer
Cover with foil until final bake to prevent cheese from burning

Instructions

Prepare Meat Sauce

  • In a skillet, cook ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion until browned.
  • Drain excess grease.
  • Add garlic, marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer 10 minutes.

Make Cheese Mixture

  • In a bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, egg, Parmesan, and parsley.
  • Mix until smooth.

Assemble Lasagna

  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
  • Add first layer of noodles.
  • Spread cheese mixture evenly, then sauce, then mozzarella.
  • Repeat layers (about 3 total).
  • Top with remaining mozzarella.

Bake

  • Cover with foil (avoid touching cheese).
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Rest & Serve

  • Let sit 10–15 minutes before cutting.

Description

This Million Dollar Lasagna features layers of tender noodles, robust meaty tomato sauce, and a rich and creamy cheese center that melts in your mouth. Every bite delivers comforting Italian-American flavors with a touch of luxurious creaminess.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving — 12 servings)

  • Calories: 540
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 33g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 960mg

(Varies by ingredients and portion size)

Conclusion

Million Dollar Lasagna is a premium yet approachable dish that brings people together at the table. It’s a show-stopping classic that feels like comfort and celebration all at once.

Recommendation

Serve with:

  • Garlic bread or toasted baguette
  • Fresh side salad with Italian vinaigrette
  • A sprinkling of fresh basil or parsley on top

It also freezes beautifully — perfect for meal planning!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

You can enjoy indulgent meals like this while still maintaining balance. Pair with veggies, keep portions mindful, and savor every delicious bite. Good food should nourish both body and joy!

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