If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings all the flavors of a classic Italian feast right to your table, the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe layers rich, savory meat sauce with a luscious blend of cheeses and perfectly cooked noodles, creating a lasagna that’s truly worth its weight in gold. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion with friends. Trust me, this Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe will become your new go-to for indulgent, cheesy happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the first step to making this show-stopping lasagna. Every item in this list plays a pivotal role, from building the savory meat sauce to crafting the creamy cheese layers that give the dish its signature richness and depth.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base for your meat sauce that adds a rich, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1/2 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Brings a smooth, tangy tomato base to the sauce.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for a savory, intense sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides texture and freshness among the tomato layers.
- 2 tsp dried basil: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, herbaceous note critical for that Italian touch.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a mild garlicky warmth without overpowering the other herbs.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Gives just the right hint of spice to balance the richness.
- 9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained): The sturdy layers that hold everything together and soak up the delicious sauce.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy, smooth layer that tempers the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- 1 egg: Binds the ricotta mixture for a firm, sliceable texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to add gooey, stretchy cheese goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and vibrant color to the cheesy layers.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles a nutty, salty punch that brightens every bite.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and extra creaminess to the cheese filling.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, herbal finish that makes your lasagna look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Meat Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for that perfect bake. Brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink, making sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce from getting greasy. Then, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, which allows all those beautiful flavors to marry together into a rich, savory sauce that forms the heart of this lasagna.
Step 2: Cooking the Lasagna Noodles
While your sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them carefully and set them aside. This step ensures that your noodles maintain just the right texture—soft enough to blend with the cheese and sauce but firm enough to hold their shape through the baking process.
Step 3: Mixing the Cheese Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, and sour cream. Stir everything until the mixture is well combined and creamy. This luscious cheese mixture provides a smooth, tangy contrast to the robust meat sauce and gives your lasagna that irresistible, rich texture that everyone loves.
Step 4: Assembling the Layers
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish to begin layering. Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom—this prevents sticking and adds flavor right to the base. Next, create a layer of lasagna noodles, then spread half of your cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Follow with half of the remaining meat sauce on top of the cheese. Repeat this layering process with noodles, cheese, and sauce one more time. Finally, top everything with the remaining noodles, meat sauce, and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses lavishly on top.
Step 5: Baking Your Lasagna to Perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and bubbles gloriously, turning a beautiful golden brown. The final step before serving is letting it rest for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the lasagna to set so it slices cleanly and every layer stays perfectly intact.
How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top just before serving to add a pop of color and a garden-fresh burst of flavor. The parsley also lightens the richness and presents your lasagna beautifully, making it look restaurant-ready even when served in your cozy home kitchen.
Side Dishes
This Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in vinaigrette, garlic bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to introduce a healthy crunch alongside the creamy layers.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a special dinner, serve individual lasagna portions in ramekins with a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs. You can also transform leftovers into lasagna roll-ups by spreading the cheese mixture and sauce onto single noodles, then rolling them up, topping with sauce and cheese, and baking briefly for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, so it often tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
This Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prepping or saving for busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen lasagna in the refrigerator overnight. Warm in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. For a quick fix, microwave individual portions, covering loosely to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for the meat sauce?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for the ground beef, depending on your preference. Each will give the lasagna a slightly different flavor profile but remains delicious.
Is it necessary to boil the lasagna noodles beforehand?
Yes, cooking the noodles until al dente helps them absorb just enough sauce without becoming mushy. However, if you use no-boil noodles, you can skip this step but ensure you add extra sauce to keep everything moist.
Can I make the cheese mixture dairy-free?
Definitely! You can use dairy-free ricotta alternatives and vegan cheeses to suit dietary needs. Just be aware that the texture and flavor will differ slightly but can still be very tasty.
How spicy is the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe?
This recipe is mild and comforting with gentle herbs and seasoning. If you like a kick, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce, but it’s designed to please all palates.
What’s the best way to serve leftover lasagna?
Leftovers can be reheated as is or transformed into lasagna sandwiches by layering slices between bread with extra cheese and toasting for a new take.
Final Thoughts
Making this Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy hug after a long day. It’s flavorful, hearty, and surprisingly easy to put together with everyday ingredients. I hope you enjoy every cozy, melty, savory bite as much as I do. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and dive into this deliciousness that lives up to its name in every layer.
Print
Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Lasagna is a rich, comforting Italian-American classic featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, hearty tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese blend, and a delightful mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, this lasagna serves as a satisfying family meal with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Pasta
- 9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided: 1 cup for cheese mixture, 1 cup for topping)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided: 1/2 cup for cheese mixture, 1 cup for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the lasagna evenly.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and onions are softened. Drain excess fat for a leaner sauce.
- Prepare Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors fully.
- Cook Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Layers: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom. Add a layer of cooked noodles, then spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture followed by half of the remaining meat sauce.
- Repeat Layers: Add a second layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta cheese mixture, and the rest of the meat sauce evenly on top.
- Top and Cover: Place the remaining noodles on top, spread the final portion of meat sauce over them, and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1 cup cheddar cheese mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and meld the layers.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven to set before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For easier slicing, let lasagna rest before serving to allow layers to set.
- Use no-boil noodles to save time; adjust layering process accordingly.
- Fresh basil can be substituted for dried basil for a brighter herb flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can add nutrition and depth.
