Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

There's something truly special about Million Dollar Lasagna—a dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a rich, indulgent masterpiece. With layers of perfectly seasoned meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and gooey melted cheese, every bite is pure comfort. The best part? It tastes like a million bucks without breaking the bank!

I first discovered this recipe when looking for an easy, make-ahead dinner that would impress guests. One bite in, and I knew I had found something spectacular. Now, it’s my go-to dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy Sunday dinners.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Lasagna

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite lasagna recipe. This version takes the classic Italian dish and adds a creamy, dreamy twist that makes it absolutely irresistible.

First, it's incredibly rich and flavorful. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tangy marinara, and a special cream cheese mixture makes each layer decadent and satisfying.

Second, it's perfect for make-ahead meals. Assemble it in advance, refrigerate overnight, and pop it in the oven when you're ready—ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Third, it's budget-friendly. Despite its luxurious taste, this dish uses simple, affordable ingredients, making it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd without overspending.

Finally, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or seasoned foodies, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Million Dollar Lasagna comes from a few key ingredients that take it from ordinary to extraordinary.

Lasagna noodles form the base of this dish. I recommend using regular, boiled noodles for the best texture, but you can use oven-ready noodles if you’re short on time. Just be sure to add extra sauce to keep them from drying out.

Ground beef and Italian sausage create the ultimate savory, flavorful meat sauce. The sausage adds depth and a slight kick, but if you prefer a milder dish, you can stick to all ground beef.

Ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream make up the signature creamy layer that sets this lasagna apart. While traditional lasagna relies on ricotta alone, the addition of cream cheese and sour cream gives it a velvety texture and rich taste.

Marinara sauce ties everything together. Use your favorite store-bought brand or make a homemade version if you have time. A sauce with a little sweetness complements the creamy layers beautifully.

Finally, plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese ensure a bubbly, golden-brown topping. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged, giving you that irresistible gooey finish.

How To Make This Million Dollar Lasagna

Making Million Dollar Lasagna is easier than you think! Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your lasagna noodles according to package instructions. If using oven-ready noodles, you can skip this step, but be sure to add extra sauce to keep everything moist.

Meanwhile, brown your ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease, then stir in your marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to develop the flavors.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and an egg until smooth and well incorporated. This mixture will add a luxurious creaminess to each bite.

Now it’s time to assemble! Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish, then layer cooked noodles, half the cheese mixture, and more sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set for a perfect, clean cut.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Million Dollar Lasagna stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

For refrigeration, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

To freeze, assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

For reheating, microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara before reheating helps maintain moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this lasagna is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few delicious variations:

Want a lighter version? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey and use low-fat ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream.

Love extra veggies? Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the layers for a nutrient boost.

Need a vegetarian option? Skip the meat and use a combination of roasted vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers.

Craving more spice? Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.

No ricotta? Substitute cottage cheese for a slightly different texture, but still creamy and delicious.

No matter how you make it, this Million Dollar Lasagna is a guaranteed hit. Try it once, and it just might become your new family favorite!

Print