Million Dollar Lasagna for a Hearty Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

If you prefer a more intense flavor in the meat sauce, you can add a finely minced clove of garlic or a small amount of onion during the browning process.

For an extra touch of color and freshness, sprinkle a handful of finely chopped fresh herbs over the top of the lasagna immediately after removing it from the oven, just before serving.

To ensure your lasagna slices are neat and sharp, use a very sharp knife and wipe the blade clean between each cut. This prevents the sauce and cheese from smearing across the top of the dish.

If you are serving a large group, you can prepare two smaller pans instead of one large 9x13 dish, which can also help the lasagna bake more evenly.

Variations

• Vegetable Lasagna: Replace the meat sauce with a mixture of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini. Ensure the vegetables are well-drained after cooking to remove excess moisture, which helps keep the lasagna from becoming watery during the baking process.
• Spicy Meat Lasagna: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while it simmers to provide a gentle heat that complements the rich cheese. You can also incorporate spicy sausage instead of plain meat for a bolder flavor.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through or in the microwave.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. It is best to consume leftovers within three to four days for the best quality.

Ensure the lasagna has cooled completely before placing it in the refrigerator to maintain its texture. When reheating, individual portions can be placed in the oven or microwave until heated through.

You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If baking directly from the refrigerator, you may need to add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to ensure the center is heated through. This is a perfect way to save time on a busy day.

Serving ideas

Serve the lasagna warm, ideally paired with a crisp side salad featuring a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and meat.

A side of crusty garlic bread is also an excellent addition for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate. For a complete meal, consider serving a simple vegetable side like roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans.

When presenting the lasagna, place a generous slice on each plate, ensuring the layers are visible. Use a wide spatula to lift the slice carefully from the baking dish to keep the structure intact. If you have guests, you can garnish each plate with a small sprig of fresh herbs to add a pop of color and a fresh aroma to the finished dish.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Million Dollar Lasagna for a Hearty Dinner

Prep 30 minCook 1 hRest 15 minTotal 1 h 45 minServes 8

Ingredients

• 24 oz savory meat sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 3 cups melted cheese
• 12 oz lasagna noodles
• herb flecks for serving

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meat for the sauce and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is browned and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Drain any excess grease, then simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese. Stir until well blended. This creamy mixture provides the rich texture that defines the million dollar lasagna experience. Ensure the cheese is fully incorporated before you begin the layering process to maintain a consistent flavor profile throughout the dish.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Place a layer of noodles on top, followed by a portion of the ricotta mixture, more meat sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat these layers until the ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of cheese and the herb flecks. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

25 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

22 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.