If you’ve ever craved a rich, creamy, and flavorful lasagna that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Million Dollar Lasagna is the answer. This indulgent lasagna takes the classic recipe to a whole new level with layers of creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and an extra cheesy finish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s called “Million Dollar” for a reason—it’s packed with high-quality ingredients, layers of cheese, and so much flavor.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional, but adds extra flavor)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Layer:

• 16 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional for added depth)

For Assembling:

• 12-14 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained (or no-boil lasagna noodles)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg (if using). Mix everything together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Begin layering the lasagna:

1. First Layer: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Second Layer: Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
3. Third Layer: Spread about 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, spreading evenly.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering with sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
5. Top Layer: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for that perfect melted, golden cheese crust.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden on top. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Step 5: Serve

Once the lasagna has rested, slice into squares and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and added freshness.

Cooking Notes & Tips

• No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: If you’re using no-boil lasagna noodles, simply layer them directly into the dish without cooking them first. They will soften and cook during the baking process.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking from the fridge.
• Freezing: This lasagna freezes beautifully! After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.
• Meat Substitutions: If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use a mix of sautéed vegetables (like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms) in place of the meat sauce.
• Extra Creaminess: Add a layer of béchamel sauce (white sauce) between the cheese mixture and the meat sauce for an ultra-creamy lasagna.

Variations

1. Spinach and Mushroom Million Dollar Lasagna

Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms to the meat sauce for a more earthy, veggie-packed version. The mushrooms add a rich umami flavor, and spinach provides extra nutrients.

2. Spicy Million Dollar Lasagna

Kick up the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporating jalapeños into the meat mixture. This version adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the creamy cheese layers.

3. Keto Million Dollar Lasagna

For a low-carb version, replace traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or eggplant slices. These make a great substitute and still allow you to enjoy the rich, cheesy layers. Be sure to choose a low-carb marinara sauce as well.

4. Meat Lover’s Million Dollar Lasagna

For an even heartier dish, use ground turkey or ground chicken in addition to the beef and sausage. You can also add layers of pepperoni, ham, or bacon for that meaty goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Million Dollar Lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it even more convenient for busy days or special occasions.

2. Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes, Million Dollar Lasagna freezes very well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.

3. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even a blend of cream cheese and sour cream. These will give you a similar creamy texture.

4. How do I prevent lasagna from being watery?

To prevent watery lasagna, make sure to drain excess liquid from the meat sauce and any vegetables you might use. Also, avoid overcooking the noodles, as they can release too much starch.

Million Dollar Lasagna is a decadent, irresistible dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella make it a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making dinner for your family, this recipe guarantees smiles all around. So, gather your ingredients, get ready to indulge, and enjoy a slice (or two) of this cheesy, flavorful masterpiece