Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground chicken sausage (as a replacement for Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 16 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Other Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chicken sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by 1/3 of the cheese mixture, 1/3 of the meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the meat sauce on top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the final layer.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with aluminum foil (tenting it slightly to prevent sticking). Bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or salad.
Description
Million Dollar Lasagna is a decadent and hearty dish featuring layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese. This rich, comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
Tips
Use no-boil lasagna noodles for an even quicker assembly.
Substitute spinach or kale for a veggie-packed version.
Make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking for an easy weeknight dinner.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food that’s packed with rich flavors and creamy layers. Perfect for a crowd or meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try it today for a satisfying, delicious meal!