If there’s one comfort food that can truly make you feel like a superstar chef, it’s Million Dollar Lasagna. With layers of creamy cheese blends, rich meat sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish lives up to its name by delivering melt-in-your-mouth flavor and that irresistible “just one more bite” magic. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or an indulgent weeknight treat, Million Dollar Lasagna always brings people together around the table—and never leaves leftovers behind!

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Million Dollar Lasagna is thoughtfully chosen for a burst of flavor and creamy, savory texture. Even the simplest elements play an important role in achieving those unmistakable layers of color and richness that everyone craves.

Lasagna noodles: The backbone of every great lasagna—cook them to al dente so they keep things light and structured.
Ground beef: Adds classic, hearty flavor to build the base of your meat sauce.
Italian sausage (casings removed): Infuses each bite with bold, herby spice and a touch of sweetness.
Marinara or spaghetti sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce for reliable, saucy depth or use homemade for a personal touch.
Cream cheese (softened): The secret to ultra-creamy layers—let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Cottage cheese: This adds a light, fluffy richness; ricotta is a classic swap if you prefer.
Sour cream: Adds just the right tang, blending seamlessly with the cheese mixture.
Egg: A binder that keeps the cheese layers stable and perfectly sliceable every time.
Mozzarella cheese (shredded): For that iconic stretchy, gooey top that browns beautifully in the oven.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish.
Olive oil: A splash in the pan keeps the meat tender and adds a silky sheen to your sauce.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that lifts the entire dish into comfort food heaven.
Garlic powder: Rounds out the savory notes with subtle warmth—no chopping required!
Salt and pepper: Season boldly at every step for layers of flavor in every forkful.
Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh green garnish to make your Million Dollar Lasagna look as incredible as it tastes.

How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Noodles

Start by bringing your oven up to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, get a big pot of salted water bubbling for the noodles. Cook them until just al dente (usually one or two minutes less than the package says), then drain and lay them on a lightly oiled baking sheet to keep them from sticking. It’s a simple step, but it sets you up for perfect, non-gummy layers.

Step 2: Create the Flavor-Packed Meat Sauce

In your favorite deep skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns. Once the meat is cooked through and smells absolutely incredible, drain off the excess fat—this keeps your Million Dollar Lasagna from becoming greasy. Stir in your marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes so those flavors mingle and deepen.

Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Cheese Layer

While the sauce bubbles away, grab a mixing bowl for the cheese blend. Combine softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, egg, and just a pinch of salt. Use a spatula or hand mixer to create a luscious, smooth filling. This is that “million dollar” touch that will make your lasagna legendary at every bite.

Step 4: Layer Like a Pro

Now comes the best part—the assembly! In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce to keep the noodles from sticking. Lay down three noodles, then spread a third of the cheese mixture on top, followed by a third of the meat sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, taking care to finish with a hefty layer of meat sauce on top. Scatter shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over everything for that golden, bubbling finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and slide it into the oven for 25 minutes. The foil traps in moisture so all those flavors meld and the cheese melts just right. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling eagerly around the edges. Rest your Million Dollar Lasagna for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing—this helps those gorgeous layers stay put and look as good as they taste.

How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna

Garnishes

You’ve already built a showstopper, but a finishing touch of freshly chopped parsley or a few basil leaves makes each slice look fresh and inviting. A quick sprinkle of grated Parmesan right before serving, or even a drizzle of good olive oil, highlights the rich flavors and adds a little restaurant-worthy flair.

Side Dishes

Pair Million Dollar Lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette—it’s the perfect contrast to all that cheesy goodness. Warm garlic bread or a soft focaccia is ideal for mopping up every last bit of sauce. If you’re feeling festive, try some roasted vegetables or a bright lemony asparagus for extra color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, try baking your Million Dollar Lasagna in individual ramekins or mini loaf pans—each guest gets their own perfect portion. Or serve it family-style, letting everyone oooh and ahhh as you bring the bubbling tray to the table. If you need a crowd-pleaser for a potluck, just cut it into finger-friendly squares and watch them disappear in minutes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve managed to save a few slices (no easy feat!), wrap them tightly or keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Million Dollar Lasagna tastes just as dreamy the next day and even makes for a savory breakfast if you’re feeling adventurous!

Freezing

The best part? This dish is practically made to freeze. Assemble the lasagna through the layering step (before baking), then wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep happily in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen—just add extra time, and cover with foil until heated through.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave or, for that freshly-baked texture, in a 350°F oven (covered) until hot and bubbly. A splash of extra sauce keeps things moist, and a quick broil at the end revives that melty cheese top. Million Dollar Lasagna reheats beautifully and is ready to comfort you on even the busiest weeknight.

FAQs

Can I substitute ricotta for cottage cheese in Million Dollar Lasagna?

Absolutely! Ricotta cheese gives an even creamier finish, so if that’s your preference or what you have on hand, swap it in seamlessly for the cottage cheese. You won’t lose any of that creamy magic.

Can I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?

You can—just be sure your sauce is a bit on the thinner side, as no-boil noodles need more moisture to soften up in the oven. Layer as usual, and bake until those telltale bubbles appear around the edges!

What’s the key to getting perfect, distinct layers?

Letting the Million Dollar Lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing is essential. This cool-down time helps the cheese set and the layers hold together, so you get those picture-perfect squares every time.

Can I make the whole lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature while the oven preheats and bake as directed for a fuss-free, delicious dinner.

Is there a gluten-free version of Million Dollar Lasagna?

Absolutely—just use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles and double-check that your sauces and seasonings are gluten-free. The rest of the magic stays unchanged for a lasagna everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Lasagna isn’t just a recipe—it’s a celebration in a pan! Whether you share it with family, friends, or just treat yourself, this dish always feels special. Give it a try, and get ready to watch everyone reach for seconds. You’ll want to make Million Dollar Lasagna a regular star at your table!

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Million Dollar Lasagna recipe. Layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese come together in a decadent baked pasta dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Lasagna Noodles:

9 lasagna noodles

Meat Sauce:

1 pound ground beef
½ pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Mixture:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 egg

Cheeses:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside on a lightly oiled sheet.
Prepare the meat sauce: In a skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, seasonings, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
Make the cheese mixture: Combine cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, egg, and salt until smooth.
Assemble the lasagna: Layer meat sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and repeat. Top with cheeses.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until golden.
Rest and garnish: Let the lasagna rest before slicing. Garnish with parsley.