Indulge in the rich and flavorful Million Dollar Lasagna, a dish that is not only delicious but also easy to make. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this recipe will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of meat sauce, creamy cheese layer, and pasta creates a symphony of flavors.
Quick and simple prep time makes it ideal for busy days.

Perfect for meal prep – make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Meat Sauce:

Ground beef and Italian sausage add depth and richness to the sauce.

Onions and garlic provide aromatic flavor.

Marinara sauce and diced tomatoes create a robust base.
Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance the overall taste.

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

Ricotta or cottage cheese adds creaminess.
Cream cheese and sour cream contribute to a luxurious texture.

Egg binds everything together.

Parmesan and mozzarella cheese provide a cheesy punch.

For the Pasta Layer:

Lasagna noodles, cooked and drained, or no-boil noodles form the comforting layers.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

In a bowl, mix ricotta/cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, egg, Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella.

Layer meat sauce, pasta, and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Helpful Tips:

Use good quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to set.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Opt for whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture.

Try adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra depth.

Make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate overnight for even better flavors.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this decadent lasagna with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store, cover the lasagna tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, feel free to substitute with your preferred protein.
Can I freeze this lasagna? Absolutely, just make sure to wrap it well before freezing.

Can I use gluten-free noodles? Yes, use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles for a suitable alternative.

Can I omit the cream cheese? While the cream cheese adds richness, you can omit it or substitute with more ricotta.

Conclusion:

Delight your taste buds with the Million Dollar Lasagna – a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!