Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

There's something magical about a bubbling tray of Million Dollar Lasagna coming out of the oven. The layers of perfectly seasoned meat sauce, creamy ricotta blend, and gooey melted cheese create a dish so rich and satisfying, it tastes like pure indulgence.

this Recipe

I first made this lasagna for a family gathering, hoping to impress my guests with something hearty and unforgettable. From the very first bite, everyone was hooked. Now, it's a staple at every holiday dinner, potluck, and special occasion in my home.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Lasagna

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food. This Million Dollar Lasagna isn't just another pasta dish – it's an irresistible masterpiece.

First, it's incredibly rich and creamy. A special blend of ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream creates an ultra-luxurious texture that sets this lasagna apart from the rest.

It's also easy to prepare. While traditional lasagna can be time-consuming, this version streamlines the process without sacrificing flavor. You'll be amazed at how effortlessly it comes together.

Plus, it feeds a crowd. Whether you're cooking for a large family or meal-prepping for the week, this lasagna delivers big portions and even bigger flavor.

Best of all, it’s a make-ahead dream. Assemble it in advance, pop it in the fridge, and bake when you're ready for a stress-free dinner that tastes freshly made.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Million Dollar Lasagna lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each layer works together to create a dish that's rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.

The lasagna noodles serve as the sturdy foundation of this dish. While no-boil noodles are convenient, using traditional boiled noodles ensures a perfectly tender texture that holds up beautifully to the layers of filling.

For the meat sauce, a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage adds deep, savory flavor. The sausage provides a hint of spice, while the beef keeps it hearty and classic. Simmering the sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning enhances its richness.

The million-dollar cheese mixture is what makes this lasagna so special. A blend of ricotta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella creates an ultra-smooth, creamy layer that melts into every bite.

Don’t forget the parmesan cheese. Adding freshly grated parmesan between the layers and on top gives the dish a perfectly salty, umami kick that elevates every forkful.

A large baking dish is key to layering everything neatly without overflow. Using a deep 9x13-inch dish ensures you get those impressive, thick layers that make this lasagna so satisfying.

How To Make This Million Dollar Lasagna

Creating this mouthwatering lasagna is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, laying them flat to prevent sticking.

Meanwhile, prepare the meat sauce. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease and add minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for at least 15 minutes to deepen the flavors.

While the sauce simmers, mix together the cheese filling. In a bowl, combine ricotta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella. Stir until smooth and creamy.

To assemble, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Lay down a layer of noodles, followed by half of the cheese mixture, then another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, sauce, and a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 40-45 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing, allowing the layers to set perfectly.

Storage Options

This Million Dollar Lasagna stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.

For refrigeration, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes.

To freeze, assemble the lasagna but do not bake it. Wrap it securely in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if needed.

Leftover slices can also be frozen individually for quick and easy future meals. Simply wrap each portion in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and reheat as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This lasagna is endlessly customizable, so feel free to make it your own.

Swap the ground beef and sausage for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.

If you're watching carbs, try using low-carb or gluten-free noodles. Some brands offer excellent alternatives that work just as well in this recipe.

For an extra punch of flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will also give it a subtle heat.

Switch up the cheese by using cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a slightly lighter texture. You can also mix in sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this Million Dollar Lasagna is guaranteed to be a hit. Experiment, tweak, and enjoy every bite of this decadent classic!

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