Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

### Directions

1. **Prepare the Meat Sauce:**
In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

2. **Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:**
Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and sugar (if using). Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. **Make the Cheese Mixture:**
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, egg, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will form the rich, creamy layers that make this lasagna special.

4. **Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:**
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Lay them flat on a clean surface to keep them from sticking.

5. **Assemble the Lasagna:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin layering the lasagna in a 9×13-inch baking dish:
– Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the dish.
– Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
– Spread a layer of the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles.
– Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cheese mixture.
– Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

6. **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 cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set and make serving easier.

7. **Garnish and Serve:**
Garnish the lasagna with fresh chopped basil, if desired, for an extra touch of color and flavor. Slice into squares and serve hot. This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

### Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Lasagna

– **Use Fresh Herbs:** While dried herbs are convenient, fresh basil, parsley, and oregano can really elevate the flavor of your lasagna. Add them into both the meat sauce and cheese mixture for an aromatic kick.

– **Double the Recipe:** Lasagna freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing one for a future meal. Just assemble it in a baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual.

– **Add Vegetables:** For a more hearty and nutritious version, add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the meat sauce or layer them between the cheese mixture. This adds depth of flavor and extra nutrients.

– **Be Generous with Cheese:** The cheese is a big part of what makes this lasagna so indulgent, so don’t hold back. A mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and even provolone creates a wonderfully melty and flavorful topping.

– **Let it Rest:** After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and prevents the lasagna from falling apart when you cut into it.

### Why Million Dollar Lasagna is Perfect for Any Occasion

**Million Dollar Lasagna** is the ideal dish for a variety of occasions:

– **Family Dinners:** Whether you’re feeding a large family or just want to have leftovers for the week, this lasagna is filling, delicious, and easily scalable.
– **Holiday Gatherings:** Serve this lasagna as a main dish at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, and watch your guests rave about it.
– **Potlucks and Parties:** It’s a great dish to bring to a potluck or party since it can be made in advance and is always a hit with a crowd.
– **Meal Prep:** Prepare and bake the lasagna ahead of time, or even assemble it and store it in the fridge for a couple of days before baking. It’s an easy make-ahead option for busy weeks.

### Final Thoughts

This **Million Dollar Lasagna** is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and indulgence. The creamy cheese mixture adds a layer of richness that transforms a classic lasagna into something truly special. With the perfect balance of savory beef, gooey cheese, and delicious marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a hearty, satisfying meal, **Million Dollar Lasagna** is guaranteed to be a hit every time.