Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a bubbling tray of lasagna fresh out of the oven. The layers of tender pasta, rich meaty sauce, and gooey melted cheese make it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. But when you add a creamy, decadent layer to the mix, you get a dish so indulgent, it's earned the name Million Dollar Lasagna.

this Recipe

The first time I made this lasagna, I was hosting a family dinner and wanted something extra special. With its rich combination of cheeses and perfectly seasoned meat sauce, it was an instant hit. Now, it's my go-to recipe for gatherings, holidays, or whenever I crave something truly satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Lasagna

Get ready to fall in love with a lasagna that's anything but ordinary. This Million Dollar Lasagna is packed with flavor and creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. While traditional lasagna recipes can be time-consuming, this version streamlines the process without sacrificing flavor.

It's also a budget-friendly dish. Despite the "million-dollar" name, the ingredients are simple and affordable, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

The combination of ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates an ultra-rich and creamy texture you won’t find in a basic lasagna. It’s the secret that takes this dish to the next level.

Best of all, this lasagna is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you're ready, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Million Dollar Lasagna lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s rich, hearty, and utterly irresistible.

Ground beef and Italian sausage form the base of the meat sauce, providing a robust, savory flavor. The sausage adds just the right amount of spice, making the sauce extra delicious.

Crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste come together to create a thick, flavorful sauce. Simmering these ingredients with garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning deepens the flavor, giving the sauce that slow-cooked taste without the extra hours.

Ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream make up the signature "million-dollar" layer. The combination creates a smooth, creamy filling that perfectly complements the meaty sauce and tender noodles.

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese add the gooey, melty factor that makes lasagna so irresistible. A generous layer on top ensures a beautifully golden, cheesy crust.

For best results, use oven-ready lasagna noodles to cut down on prep time. However, if you prefer the traditional method, you can boil regular lasagna noodles until al dente before layering.

How To Make This Million Dollar Lasagna

Making this lasagna is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a dish that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress.

Start by browning the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the meat apart as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease, then stir in onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.

Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.

While the sauce simmers, prepare the creamy layer by combining ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well-blended. This layer is what sets this lasagna apart from the rest.

Now, it’s time to assemble. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Arrange lasagna noodles over the sauce, then layer with the creamy cheese mixture, more meat sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce and cheese.

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to turn golden and bubbly.

Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Storage Options

Million Dollar Lasagna stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dish.

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

To freeze, assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

For reheating, place individual slices in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

For a lighter version, swap the ground beef and sausage for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use low-fat ricotta and cream cheese to reduce the richness while still maintaining creaminess.

If you love extra veggies, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the layers. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for added flavor and texture.

Prefer a vegetarian version? Omit the meat and replace it with roasted vegetables or a mix of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty, meatless twist.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. Many brands offer excellent alternatives that hold up well in baked dishes.

However you customize it, this Million Dollar Lasagna is sure to be a hit. Try it out and let me know how you make it your own!

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