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Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce on low for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Set aside.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Once the sauce is thick and creamy, remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Lasagna Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a generous layer of the cheese mixture, a spoonful of béchamel sauce, and more meat sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella on top.
- Bake the Lasagna Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
- Serve and Enjoy Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips for the Best Million Dollar Lasagna
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
The key to a rich, flavorful lasagna is using the best ingredients you can find. Look for whole milk ricotta, fresh mozzarella, and a high-quality tomato sauce. These small details will elevate the overall taste.
2. Make It Ahead
For an even more flavorful lasagna, make it the day before. Allow it to sit in the fridge overnight, and bake it the next day. The resting time allows the flavors to develop, making it even better.
3. Add Extra Veggies
Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to your lasagna for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté the vegetables beforehand to release excess moisture.
4. Let It Rest
After baking, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner, more even slices.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and a generous mix of cheeses into one irresistible dish. Perfect for any occasion, this lasagna is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or just for a cozy weeknight meal, you can’t go wrong with this rich and indulgent recipe. Prepare to impress your guests with this cheesy, mouthwatering masterpiece!
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