👨🍳 Instructions:
🥘 Prepare the Meat Sauce:
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
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Cook ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion until browned and fully cooked.
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Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
🧑🍳 Mix the Cheese Filling:
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In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, 2 cups of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley.
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Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
🥣 Layer the Lasagna:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
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Add a layer of lasagna noodles (3–4 noodles).
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Spread 1/3 of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
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Add 1/3 of the meat sauce.
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Repeat layers two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with meat sauce.
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Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
🔥 Bake the Lasagna:
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Cover the dish with foil (spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
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Bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
🌟 Variations:
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🥕 Vegetarian Option: Swap meat with sautéed veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
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🌱 Low-Carb Version: Replace noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.
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🧀 Cheese Twist: Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta or add provolone for extra flavor.
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🔥 Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or increase red pepper flakes.
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🍶 Creamy Variation: Substitute marinara with a béchamel sauce for a smooth, rich texture.
💡 Tips:
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🕰️ Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate.
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❄️ Freezing: Store uncooked lasagna in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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🍷 Add Flavor: A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar in the meat sauce enhances depth.
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🍝 Even Layers: Spread each layer evenly for a clean-cut lasagna slice.
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🍽️ Serving Tip: Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
💯 Why It’s a Million Dollar Dish:
With its creamy cheese layers, hearty meat sauce, and golden, bubbly top, this lasagna truly lives up to its name. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will make everyone feel like a million bucks! 💵🍽️
Enjoy your Million Dollar Lasagna! 🎉
