Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your family and friends with something indulgent, comforting, and downright irresistible, you’ve found it in the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe. This dish brings together layers of rich, savory meat sauce and a luscious, creamy cheese blend that melts beautifully with every bite. From the tangy tomato base to the melty mozzarella and the secret weapon cream cheese, it’s a lasagna experience that feels like a celebration in every forkful. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a craving for delicious Italian-American comfort food, this Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe promises to be a showstopper on your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe starts with simple, classic ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, each bringing its own layer of flavor, texture, and richness. From the savory meats to the creamy cheeses and perfectly seasoned tomato sauces, every ingredient counts toward building those memorable layers of deliciousness.

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty, savory depth and a perfect base for the meat sauce.
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage: Adds spice and complexity with its aromatic herbs and fat content.
• 1 small onion, diced: Sweetens and softens the sauce while layering in texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a pungent kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce: The tomato-rich foundation that brings moisture and tangy brightness.
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and helps balance the acidity of the marinara.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with traditional Italian herbs to keep it authentically flavorful.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for amplifying all the natural flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
• 9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained or oven-ready): The sturdy pasta layers that soak up sauce and cheese perfectly.
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened): Introduces a silky, rich texture that sets this recipe apart from traditional lasagna.
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: Provides light creaminess and a mild flavor to balance the hearty meat sauce.
• 1 large egg: Binds the cheese mixture so it holds together nicely when sliced.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that signature gooey stretchiness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for savory, nutty notes and a golden finish.
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, pretty pop of green and a slight herbaceous hint.

How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion until everything is wonderfully browned and fragrant. Once the meat has released its flavors, drain off the excess fat so your sauce won’t be too greasy. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just long enough to get that warm, aromatic hit. Then pour in the marinara and tomato sauces, followed by Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce gently simmer for about 10 minutes to marry all those bold flavors together, creating a savory base for your lasagna layers. When it smells this good, you know you’re on the right track!

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Blend

While the sauce simmers, grab a medium bowl and beat the softened cream cheese, ricotta, and large egg until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This luscious blend is what makes the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe truly special and creamy in every layer, delivering a velvety texture that perfectly complements the robustness of the meat sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

Now it’s time to build your masterpiece in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom so your noodles don’t stick. Layer three lasagna noodles on top of that sauce, then spread half the cheese blend evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella cheese to add that perfect melty layer. Repeat these layers: sauce, noodles, the remaining cheese mixture, and another layer of mozzarella. For the final touch, add your last three noodles, cover them with the remaining meat sauce, and top with the rest of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese for a golden crust during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and pop it in the oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25 minutes to let all the flavors meld and the cheese melt evenly. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and gorgeously golden brown. After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for 10 to 15 minutes — this lets it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and enjoy that perfect layered bite.

How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top not only adds a vibrant splash of color but also a subtle fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan at the table for those who love a cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

Serve this Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to lighten the palate. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette are perfect to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce and cheese left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique presentation at your next dinner, consider baking the lasagna in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for personal portions. This makes serving effortless and adds a charming, rustic touch to the table. You could even layer in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms in between for added color and flavor twists!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe actually tastes fantastic the next day. Simply cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors continue to meld, and the texture remains wonderfully creamy.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking by wrapping it securely with plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as usual, adding a bit of extra time if needed since it starts cold.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave portions for quicker meals, but the oven method preserves the best texture and flavor of your Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provide the classic creamy texture and flavor, you can experiment by adding provolone or fontina for extra richness or sharpness. Just keep the balance so the layers stay creamy.

Do I have to cook the noodles before assembling lasagna?

If you use oven-ready or no-boil lasagna noodles, you can skip the cooking step because they’ll soften during baking. However, if your noodles are regular dried pasta, it’s important to cook and drain them first to ensure they’re tender in the finished dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef and Italian sausage for plant-based meat alternatives or a hearty vegetable mix such as mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a vegetarian-friendly Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe that’s just as satisfying.

How long can I keep the assembled lasagna before baking?

Assembled lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to two days before baking. This makes it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days or entertaining.

What wine pairs well with this lasagna?

Rich, medium-bodied red wines like Chianti, Sangiovese, or a Zinfandel complement the flavors in the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe perfectly, balancing the hearty meat sauce and creamy cheese.

Final Thoughts

Making the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe is like inviting joy to your dinner table. The layers of meaty tomato sauce and creamy cheese come together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something special for yourself, this recipe delivers warmth, comfort, and a little bit of luxury in every slice. Trust me, once you try it, this lasagna will become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

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4.1 from 36 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x

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Description

Million Dollar Lasagna is a rich and creamy Italian-American baked dish featuring layers of savory meat sauce, a smooth ricotta and cream cheese blend, tender lasagna noodles, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This comforting main course is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering hearty flavors and a luscious texture in every bite.

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Ingredients

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Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Mixture

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained or oven-ready
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Meat Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion until fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes. Remove from heat once done.
2. Make Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Assemble Lasagna: Using a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce evenly on the bottom. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the process: meat sauce, 3 noodles, remaining cheese mixture, and mozzarella. Finish with the last 3 noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to create a beautifully layered dish.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and has turned golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set for easier serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

• This lasagna can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days prior to baking for convenience.
• For richer flavor, add an extra layer of provolone cheese or enhance the meat sauce by incorporating a splash of red wine.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American