Million Dollar Lasagna

## **Step-by-Step Instructions**

### **Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce**
1. In a **large skillet or Dutch oven**, cook the **ground beef and Italian sausage** over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Add **diced onion and minced garlic**; cook for **2-3 minutes** until fragrant.
3. Stir in **crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, sugar, and red pepper flakes**.
4. Let the sauce simmer for **20-30 minutes**, stirring occasionally, to develop rich flavors.

### **Step 2: Prepare the Million Dollar Cheese Filling**
1. In a **large bowl**, mix together **cream cheese, ricotta, cottage cheese, sour cream, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning**.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

### **Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles**
1. Cook the **lasagna noodles** according to the package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse with **cold water** to prevent sticking.

### **Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna**

**Layer 1:** Spread **1 cup of meat sauce** on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
**Layer 2:** Add **3 lasagna noodles** over the sauce.
**Layer 3:** Spread **⅓ of the cheese mixture** over the noodles.
**Layer 4:** Sprinkle with **½ cup mozzarella cheese**.
**Layer 5:** Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with meat sauce and cheese on top.
**Final Layer:** Sprinkle **Parmesan cheese** on top for extra flavor.

### **Step 5: Bake the Lasagna**
1. Cover with foil and bake at **350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes**.
2. Remove foil and bake for **10-15 more minutes**, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Let the lasagna **rest for 10-15 minutes** before slicing.

### **Step 6: Garnish & Serve**
– Sprinkle with **fresh basil or parsley** before serving.
– Serve with **garlic bread and a fresh salad** for the perfect meal.

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## **What to Serve with Million Dollar Lasagna**

**Garlic Bread** – Buttery, crispy, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
**Caesar Salad** – A fresh, crunchy salad balances the richness of the lasagna.
**Red Wine** – A glass of **Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon** pairs beautifully with this dish.

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## **Tips for the Best Lasagna**

**Use a deep baking dish** – This lasagna has **thick layers**, so use a **deep 9×13-inch dish**.
**Let it rest before cutting** – This helps the layers hold together when serving.
**Don’t overcook the noodles** – Slightly undercook them since they absorb sauce while baking.
**Make it ahead** – Assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

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## **Recipe Variations & Customizations**

**Make It Lighter** – Use ground turkey instead of beef and swap cottage cheese for Greek yogurt.
**Add Veggies** – Layer in **spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini** for extra nutrients.
**Spicy Version** – Use **spicy Italian sausage** and extra red pepper flakes for heat.

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## **Storage & Reheating**

### **Leftovers:**
– Store in an **airtight container** in the fridge for **up to 4 days**.
– Reheat in the microwave or oven at **325°F for 15-20 minutes**.

### **Freezing:**
– Freeze **unbaked lasagna** for up to **3 months** (cover tightly with plastic wrap & foil).
– When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

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## **Final Thoughts**

Million Dollar Lasagna **takes a classic dish to a whole new level** with its **rich, creamy cheese layers and bold, meaty sauce**. Whether you’re making it for **a family gathering, meal prep, or a special occasion**, this recipe is sure to impress!

Try it out and **enjoy every delicious, cheesy bite!**