Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of making a dish so delicious it feels a little bit decadent, this Million Dollar Lasagna is for you. Imagine fork-tender layers of pasta, a velvety, rich cheese filling, hearty meat sauce, and that golden blanket of bubbly mozzarella and parmesan on top. It’s everything comfort food was meant to be, and then some. Perfect for impressing friends, feeding a crowd, or simply treating your family to a weeknight feast, Million Dollar Lasagna brings together classic Italian flavors with an irresistible creamy twist you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Million Dollar Lasagna plays a starring role, so gather the freshest, tastiest options you can find. These simple essentials team up to deliver unbelievable flavor, layered texture, and that unforgettable golden finish.

• Lasagna noodles: Go for classic or oven-ready; just be sure to cook until just al dente for perfect layering.
• Italian sausage or ground beef: Adds hearty, savory depth—choose based on your favorite flavor profile or mix both for extra richness.
• Spaghetti sauce: A jar of your favorite brings a big punch of tomato flavor and a hint of sweetness.
• Tomato sauce: Rounds out the sauce, keeping everything lush and full-bodied.
• Italian seasoning: This blend gives your sauce herby, fragrant warmth in every bite.
• Cottage cheese: Don’t skip it! This is the secret to a creamy, pillowy cheese layer that’s decidedly un-heavy.
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds lusciousness and a gentle tang that makes this lasagna feel extra special.
• Sour cream: A spoonful adds silkiness and slight zing to balance the richness.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture so every slice holds its shape beautifully.
• Dried parsley: Brings color and a pop of earthy flavor to the filling.
• Mozzarella cheese slices: Classic for that dreamy, stringy cheese pull on top—slices melt evenly for perfect coverage.
• Parmesan cheese: A finish of salty, nutty parmesan makes the melted topping irresistible.

How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Start by boiling the lasagna noodles in a big pot of well-salted water. Follow the package instructions and stir gently so they don’t stick. Once they’re just al dente—tender but still with some chew—drain them. For easier handling later, lay them out flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment so they don’t end up glued together.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Set a large skillet over medium heat, add your Italian sausage or ground beef, and break it up as it cooks. Once it’s well browned and craving-worthy, drain off any extra fat. Pour in your spaghetti sauce and tomato sauce, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and give everything a loving stir. Let this simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so all the flavors have time to mingle and become something truly special.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, the beaten egg, and a generous tablespoon of dried parsley. Stir until the mixture is creamy and completely blended, with no streaks of egg or lumps of cream cheese. This is the secret layer that takes Million Dollar Lasagna from delicious to decadent!

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now comes the fun part—layering! Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in your 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the noodles from sticking. Add a layer of noodles, followed by a generous scoop of the cheese mixture, then more meat sauce. Repeat the layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a hearty layer of meat sauce on top to keep everything beautifully moist as it bakes.

Step 5: Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Blanket the final layer of sauce with slices of mozzarella cheese, making sure every inch is covered and ready to melt into gooey perfection. Sprinkle grated parmesan over the top for that signature salty, toasty finish. Your Million Dollar Lasagna is ready for its oven debut!

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish snugly with aluminum foil (to lock in moisture and prevent burning), and bake for 25 minutes. Then, ditch the foil and let the lasagna bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for golden, bubbling cheese and edges that just beg to be scooped up.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

As tempting as it is to slice right in, let your Million Dollar Lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This little pause allows everything to set perfectly, so each piece holds its gorgeous layers when plated. Now, grab your spatula—dinner is ready!

How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna

Garnishes

For a little restaurant-worthy flair, scatter chopped fresh parsley or basil over the lasagna just before serving. A sprinkle of extra parmesan or a light grind of black pepper can really bring out the dish’s savory notes. If you love a kick, consider crushed red pepper flakes at the table.

Side Dishes

Pairing sides with Million Dollar Lasagna is all about balance and freshness. Crisp green salads dressed with lemony vinaigrette, simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, or classic garlic bread all make fabulous partners, adding contrast to the lasagna’s rich, hearty personality.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try baking individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes, or serve slices atop a bed of lightly sautéed greens. For casual gatherings, let everyone build their own slice at a “lasagna bar” with bowls of parmesan and fresh herbs for topping. However you serve it, Million Dollar Lasagna loves a little personal touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Lasagna keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. The flavors meld as it rests, sometimes making it even tastier the next day!

Freezing

This lasagna is perfect for stocking your freezer. Assemble as directed but don’t bake; wrap the dish in several layers of foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for an effortless meal, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual—add 10 to 15 minutes to allow for the chill.

Reheating

To reheat, cover slices with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. Microwave reheating also works for individual portions—try about 2–3 minutes on medium power. For best results, add a splash of water or tomato sauce before reheating to keep everything supple and moist.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, ricotta cheese makes a perfect swap if you prefer a more traditional Italian flavor and texture. The cottage cheese in Million Dollar Lasagna just lends a lighter, creamier feel, but both work beautifully!

Do I need to cook the noodles if I use oven-ready?

If you use oven-ready noodles, you can skip the boiling step. Just ensure your meat sauce is extra saucy, as the noodles will soak up more liquid while baking to soften properly.

Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the Italian sausage or beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a medley of your favorite veggies. The cheese mixture and sauce will still give your Million Dollar Lasagna plenty of flavor and heartiness.

How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?

For a perfectly set Million Dollar Lasagna, drain your meat thoroughly, simmer the sauce until thick, and let the baked lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. These steps keep layers neat and flavorful, not soggy.

Can I assemble Million Dollar Lasagna ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out 30 minutes before to shake off the chill, then bake as directed for easy entertaining.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Million Dollar Lasagna is a staple in so many kitchens—it’s pure comfort and unmistakable wow-factor all in one bite. Whether you’re building new family traditions or feeding a hungry crowd, this lasagna brings the kind of joy that gets everyone gathered around the table. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested recipe!

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