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Super Moist Fruit Cake

Million Dollar Lasagna

This Million Dollar Lasagna elevates classic comfort food with creamy ricotta, rich meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella, leaving a lasting impression.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Use lean variety for a healthier option.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Can swap with mild sausage or vegetarian alternative.
  • 1 cup Onion Chopped; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Canned is convenient, or fresh if in season.
  • 12 ounces Tomato Paste Can be omitted if fresh tomatoes are used.
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Basil Can substitute fresh herbs at a 3:1 ratio.
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano Can substitute fresh herbs at a 3:1 ratio.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Pepper Enhances overall seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Noodles and Cheese
  • 12 pieces Lasagna Noodles Use regular or gluten-free noodles as desired.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese is a great substitute.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ricotta mixture together; omit for vegetarian option.
  • 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can substitute lower-fat mozzarella.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can serve as an alternative.
  • Fresh basil or parsley For garnish; adds color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients while the oven warms up.
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions in boiling, salted water for 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef and Italian sausage with chopped onion and minced garlic for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  6. In a greased baking dish, layer with meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers and finish with noodles and sauce on top.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes.
  8. Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For a hassle-free meal, assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it. You can also make a vegetarian version with vegetables instead of meat.

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