Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat, then add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, and add dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes to develop flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream.
- Add 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, the egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking.
- Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella) until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with additional shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Million Dollar Lasagna pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.
Variations & Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even richer taste.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prepare and assemble the lasagna, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour, covering with foil until the last 20 minutes.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Lighter Option: Swap out the cream cheese and sour cream for low-fat versions and use lean ground turkey instead of beef and sausage.
Million Dollar Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite. With its luxurious cheese filling and hearty meat sauce, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Whether you prepare it fresh or freeze it for later, this indulgent lasagna will always deliver a satisfying meal. Try this recipe today and experience why it’s called “Million Dollar”—because it tastes like a million bucks!
