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Ultimate Million Dollar Lasagna

Ultimate Million Dollar Lasagna That Will Wow Your Guests

Experience the Ultimate Million Dollar Lasagna, a comforting classic with rich flavors and creamy layers that brings family and friends together.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 noodles Wavy Lasagna Noodles Opt for curly-edged noodles for better sauce adhesion.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (80/20) A hearty protein that adds richness.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Provides flavor while sautéing.
  • 1 small Yellow Onion Adds natural sweetness and depth.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Essential for an aromatic base.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes The heart of the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Thickens the sauce.
For the Ricotta Mixture
  • 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Ensures creaminess in layers.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ricotta.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning Imparts delightful herbal notes.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Key for a crispy top.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Use as a garnish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • medium bowl
  • large pot
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ultimate Million Dollar Lasagna
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  2. Drain any excess fat, then stir in 1 diced yellow onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, stirring for another 2 minutes until it deepens in color.
  4. Next, pour in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine everything in the skillet.
  5. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
  6. While the sauce simmers, in a medium bowl, combine 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.
  7. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, then cook 12 wavy lasagna noodles for 2 minutes less than package instructions.
  8. When done, drain the noodles carefully and lay them flat on parchment paper.
  9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer with noodles, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.
  10. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used. Finish with a layer of noodles and the rest of the meat sauce.
  11. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with an additional 2 cups of mozzarella, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes.
  12. Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes for a blistered cheese crust.
  13. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allowing the lasagna to cool for 20 minutes after baking is crucial for maintaining distinct layers.

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