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## **How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna: Step-by-Step Guide**
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making Million Dollar Lasagna. While the recipe does require a bit of time and effort, the end result is completely worth it. Here’s how you can make this indulgent dish:
### **Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce**
1. **Heat olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the **ground beef** (or a mixture of beef and sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Once the meat is browned, add the **onion** and **garlic**. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the **crushed tomatoes**, **tomato paste**, and **seasonings**—Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
5. Lower the heat and let the sauce **simmer** for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture**
1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the **ricotta cheese**, **cream cheese**, and **shredded mozzarella cheese**.
2. Add the **egg** and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in **parmesan cheese** and a handful of **chopped fresh parsley**. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
### **Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles**
1. If you’re using **traditional lasagna noodles**, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
2. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet or clean towel to prevent sticking.
If you’re using **no-boil lasagna noodles**, simply skip this step and move on to the next.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna**
1. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
2. Grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish with a little bit of **olive oil** or non-stick spray.
3. Spread a thin layer of the **meat sauce** on the bottom of the baking dish.
4. Layer the **lasagna noodles** on top of the sauce.
5. Add a generous layer of the **cheese mixture** on top of the noodles.
6. Repeat this process, layering the **meat sauce**, **noodles**, and **cheese mixture** until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of meat sauce.
7. Top with a final generous layer of **shredded mozzarella cheese**.
### **Step 5: Bake the Lasagna**
1. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for **25-30 minutes**.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional **15-20 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
3. Let the lasagna rest for about **10-15 minutes** before slicing to allow it to set and make cutting easier.
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## **Tips for Making the Perfect Million Dollar Lasagna**
While making Million Dollar Lasagna is relatively simple, there are a few key tips to ensure your lasagna turns out perfect every time:
### **1. Don’t Skimp on the Cheese**
One of the defining characteristics of Million Dollar Lasagna is the rich cheese mixture. Be sure to use **full-fat** ricotta and **cream cheese** for the creamiest, most indulgent texture. Don’t be shy about layering plenty of cheese between the pasta and sauce!
### **2. Use Fresh Herbs**
Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your lasagna. While the recipe calls for dried Italian seasoning, you can also experiment with fresh basil, oregano, and parsley to bring a fresh, bright flavor to the dish.
### **3. Let the Lasagna Rest**
After baking, it’s essential to let your lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before cutting it. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without the layers sliding apart.
### **4. Make it Ahead**
Million Dollar Lasagna is a great dish to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This can even enhance the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together.
### **5. Get Creative with Add-ins**
While the classic Million Dollar Lasagna is fantastic on its own, feel free to get creative by adding ingredients like **sautéed mushrooms**, **spinach**, or **bell peppers** to the meat sauce for added flavor and texture.
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## **Conclusion: A Luxurious Comfort Food**
Million Dollar Lasagna is a dish that combines the best of comfort food with indulgent flavors, making it the perfect choice for special occasions, family gatherings, or just a treat for yourself. With its three types of cheese, creamy layers, and savory meat sauce, it’s no wonder that this lasagna is a showstopper that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes it.
Whether you’re a seasoned lasagna maker or a newcomer to the dish, the recipe is approachable, customizable, and sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your layers, and enjoy this luxurious and comforting version of one of the world’s most beloved dishes.
