Now that you have everything ready, let’s jump into the directions for crafting your Million Dollar Lasagna:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain the fat, then add marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.

4. Mix Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, one cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, the egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

5. Layer Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. Then add three lasagna noodles. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layering process, finishing with noodles topped with the last of the meat sauce.

6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top layer of sauce.

7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Cool: Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 15 minutes before slicing. This ensures the layers hold together nicely.

9. Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for an extra pop of flavor.

These easy-to-follow steps are designed to guide you effortlessly through the Million Dollar Lasagna-making experience.