There’s something magical about a bubbling pan of lasagna fresh from the oven, isn’t there? Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the recipe for Million Dollar Lasagna—a rich, layered masterpiece that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and just the right amount of hearty satisfaction, this dish earns its name with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering, this lasagna delivers in taste, presentation, and ease of preparation.
Trust me, this recipe is a must-try! And if you want recipes like this delivered right to your inbox, don’t forget to subscribe and join our food-loving community.
What Is Million Dollar Lasagna?
Million Dollar Lasagna is an upgraded take on the classic Italian-American comfort food. This recipe adds a creamy cheese layer that takes the lasagna to a whole new level of indulgence. Each layer is perfectly balanced, combining savory ground meat, rich marinara, velvety cheese, and tender noodles into a dish that’s worth every penny of its “million-dollar” name.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of ground beef, chicken sausage, and marinara sauce creates a hearty and satisfying base, while the creamy cheese layer adds lusciousness.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to match your taste or what you have on hand.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or even meal prep—this lasagna reheats beautifully!
- Simple to Make: Despite its impressive look and taste, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
What Does Million Dollar Lasagna Taste Like?
Imagine a perfectly balanced lasagna that’s creamy, cheesy, meaty, and saucy all at once. The tang of marinara blends beautifully with the savory meat layer, while the smooth and decadent cheese mixture brings it all together. Top it off with bubbling, golden mozzarella, and you’ve got a lasagna that’s indulgent but not overwhelming.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Lasagna
Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground chicken sausage (or Italian sausage if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Large pot for boiling noodles (if using regular lasagna noodles)
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Foil for covering during baking
How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chicken sausage, and onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes while you prepare the cheese mixture.
2. Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Noodles (If Needed)
If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them out flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering:
- Layer 1: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of noodles.
- Layer 3: Spread a generous amount of the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Layer 4: Top with meat sauce and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
What to Serve with Million Dollar Lasagna
Pair this lasagna with:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Mixed green salad: A fresh and tangy counterbalance to the rich lasagna.
- Roasted vegetables: Think asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna
- Use oven-ready noodles for an easier assembly process, but regular noodles work beautifully if you prefer a traditional approach.
- Let it rest: Allowing the lasagna to cool slightly before cutting helps the layers set, making for cleaner slices.
- Customize the meat: Swap out chicken sausage for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
How to Store and Reheat Lasagna
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I Freeze Unbaked Lasagna?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
Cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta in this recipe.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Every Bite
Million Dollar Lasagna truly lives up to its name. It’s rich, indulgent, and layered with love. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make.
Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your lasagna masterpiece on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see your creations!
Looking for more cozy recipes? Check out these delicious dishes:
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Cheesy Baked Ziti
- Classic Meatball Sub Casserole
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Enjoy your million-dollar feast!