Million Dollar Lasagna
Introduction
Growing up in an Italian-American household, lasagna was a staple at every family gathering. It was a dish that brought everyone together, with its layers of rich flavors and cheesy goodness. My great-grandmother passed down her beloved lasagna recipe, and over the years, it has become a cherished tradition. Today, I’m excited to share with you our family’s secret recipe for Million Dollar Lasagna.
Getting the Recipe
I still remember the day when my grandmother handed me a worn-out recipe card. She told me that this lasagna recipe had been in our family for generations and was considered a prized possession. As I held the card in my hands, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of responsibility to preserve this culinary masterpiece.
The recipe card was filled with detailed instructions and handwritten notes from my great-grandmother. It was clear that she had poured her heart and soul into perfecting this dish. Seeing her meticulous handwriting made me realize that this lasagna was more than just a recipe; it was a piece of our family’s history.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the preparation process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this Million Dollar Lasagna:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package (16 ounces) lasagna noodles
– 3 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Preparation
To start, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
In the meantime, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Now, it’s time to assemble the lasagna. Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the lasagna in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Once the lasagna is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Variations
While our Million Dollar Lasagna recipe is already a showstopper, there are a few variations you can try to add your own personal touch:
1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef and Italian sausage with mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a flavorful vegetarian lasagna.
2. Seafood Twist: Add layers of cooked shrimp, crabmeat, and scallops for a luxurious seafood lasagna.
3. Spinach and Ricotta: Incorporate sautéed spinach and extra ricotta cheese between the layers for a deliciously creamy lasagna.
Keto Version
If you’re following a keto diet, you can still enjoy the indulgence of Million Dollar Lasagna with a few simple swaps:
– Replace the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.
– Use cauliflower rice instead of ricotta cheese for a low-carb alternative.
– Opt for sugar-free tomato sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes and herbs.
FAQ
Can I make Million Dollar Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, lasagna tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply assemble the lasagna as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake as directed.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Lasagna?
Yes, Million Dollar Lasagna freezes beautifully. After baking, allow the lasagna to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings or freeze the entire dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw the lasagna in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
How long does Million Dollar Lasagna last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, Million Dollar Lasagna can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Lasagna is more than just a dish; it’s a labor of love that has been passed down through generations. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this mouthwatering lasagna is sure to impress. So gather your loved ones, follow our family recipe, and indulge in a slice of lasagna heaven. Buon appetito!
