If you’re craving a show-stopping comfort food classic, look no further—Million Dollar Lasagna lives up to its name and then some! This dish takes all the traditional lasagna layers you love and dresses them up with an extra-rich, ultra-creamy cheese layer that truly feels like a splurge. Hearty meat sauce, tender noodles, and a blend of cheeses come together in a bubbling, golden masterpiece that’s family-friendly and guaranteed to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Million Dollar Lasagna is that it relies on kitchen staples, yet each ingredient plays a major part in creating its unforgettable flavors and textures. From the richness of cream cheese to the savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, every element here brings something special to your plate.
- Lasagna noodles (12, cooked and drained): Classic pasta sheets give you that satisfying structure and soak up all the amazing flavors between layers.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Adds savory depth and hearty, meaty texture to the sauce.
- Italian sausage (1/2 pound): Brings a subtle spice and unmistakable flavor twist that makes the sauce absolutely irresistible.
- Marinara or spaghetti sauce (1 jar, 24 oz): Provides the juicy, tangy tomato base that ties the whole dish together for that classic Italian-American vibe.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): An easy way to infuse garlicky aroma without needing to chop fresh cloves.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Lends an herby background, bringing out the best in your sauce.
- Ricotta cheese (1 container, 15 oz): This soft cheese keeps the filling light yet creamy with the perfect mild flavor.
- Cream cheese (1 package, 8 oz, softened): Adds unmistakable silkiness and richness you’ll taste in every forkful.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Boosts the lusciousness of the cheese filling with a subtle tang.
- Egg (1): Helps bind the cheese filling for perfect slices every time.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): The gooey, stretchy layer everyone loves—don’t be shy with it!
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): A final sprinkle for a salty, nutty, beautifully golden top.
- Salt & black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all those bold flavors—season generously but thoughtfully.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a little herbaceous lift to every slice.
How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna
Step 1: Cook the Meats
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until fully browned and cooked through, using a spoon or spatula to break up any big chunks for a blend that’s both hearty and evenly distributed. Once browned, don’t forget to drain off the excess grease; this keeps your Million Dollar Lasagna perfectly balanced and prevents it from becoming too heavy.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
With the meat mixture still in the pan, pour in your marinara or spaghetti sauce, followed by the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Add a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. The simmering melds the flavors and thickens the sauce just enough so it won’t get watery as your lasagna bakes.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer
Now for the secret to Million Dollar Lasagna: in a medium bowl, combine your ricotta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and egg. Mix it well until smooth and luscious—this unique blend is what takes this lasagna into extra-luxurious territory. The filling should be creamy but not runny, ready to melt into those perfect layers.
Step 4: Layer Up!
Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a light layer of the meat sauce across the bottom. Top with a single layer of cooked noodles, then spread on half of your cheese mixture, smoothing it edge to edge. Add more of that gorgeous meat sauce, then sprinkle on a layer of mozzarella. Repeat these layers—noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella—until everything is used up, finishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that signature golden top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, letting the top get bubbly and golden. The aroma will be out of this world! Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing so you get beautiful, neat layers in every serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped parsley is all you need to make each slice look like it came straight from an Italian trattoria. A dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving also adds a burst of savoriness and elevates both the taste and presentation of your Million Dollar Lasagna.
Side Dishes
Pair your Million Dollar Lasagna with a refreshing side salad (think peppery arugula, mixed greens, or a classic Caesar) to balance the richness, and add some warm garlic bread or soft, buttered rolls to mop up every bit of sauce on your plate. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or broccoli, are also lovely alongside for extra color and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking for something extra fun? Serve individual slices on white plates for that dramatic photo-worthy moment, or go rustic by dishing into shallow pasta bowls. For parties, you can cut the lasagna into bite-size squares and offer them as hearty appetizers. Any way you slice it, this Million Dollar Lasagna guarantees happy, satisfied smiles around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply let your Million Dollar Lasagna cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated slices just as tasty—if not more so—than the first night. It will keep perfectly for up to four days in the fridge.
Freezing
Million Dollar Lasagna is a true make-ahead champion. Once assembled (before or after baking), wrap tightly in plastic, then in foil. Label and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking; this trick makes it a lifesaver for busy weeks or special occasions.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices gently in a 350°F oven (covered with foil to prevent over-browning) until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also use the microwave for individual portions. Add a splash of sauce or a sprinkle of water on top before reheating to keep things moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I assemble Million Dollar Lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld even more. Store the assembled, unbaked dish covered in the fridge, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
What other meats can I use?
You can substitute the beef and sausage combo with just beef, turkey, or even chicken sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to season well, as leaner meats may need a flavor boost.
Is it possible to make Million Dollar Lasagna vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the beef and sausage for a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini. Use your favorite tomato-based sauce, and you won’t miss the meat at all.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles work beautifully—just add a bit more sauce between the layers to ensure they cook through and stay tender.
How do I keep my lasagna from getting watery?
Make sure to simmer the meat sauce until it’s thick and not runny, and allow the lasagna to rest after baking. This helps everything firm up, giving you neat, gorgeous slices every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of a hearty, memorable meal to wow your loved ones, this Million Dollar Lasagna is sure to earn rave reviews and plenty of repeat requests. Loaded with flavor, fabulously creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent, it’s the kind of dish that turns any night into a celebration. Give it a try, and watch everyone at your table become instant fans!
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Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Million Dollar Lasagna recipe. Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese mixture, and tender noodles, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. A classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained;
Meat Sauce:
1 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound Italian sausage; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; salt and black pepper to taste;
Cheese Mixture:
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese; 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 egg;
Cheeses:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese;
Garnish:
chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Meat: Brown ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet. Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and egg until smooth.
- Layer Ingredients: In a baking dish, layer noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers and top with Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For extra richness, use a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Can be assembled ahead and baked later.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
