Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe

If you’re craving a rich, comforting, and utterly irresistible meal, the Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe is your ticket to lasagna heaven. This recipe layers perfectly seasoned meat sauce with a luscious, creamy cheese blend and tender noodles that come together in a bubbling, golden bake. It hits all the right notes with fresh herbs, a hint of sweetness in the sauce, and indulgent cheeses that melt beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a classic Italian favorite, this Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe promises an unforgettable dinner experience you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is essential in creating that signature balance of flavors and textures we all love about lasagna. From the savory meats and vibrant tomato sauces to the creamy cheeses and fragrant herbs, each component plays a starring role in building this dish’s magic.

• 500 g ground beef: Use 80/20 for a juicy, flavorful base to the meat sauce.
• 350 g Italian sausage, casings removed: Adds depth and a hint of spice for complexity.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Softens and sweetens the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and essential Italian flavor.
• 700 ml marinara sauce: The heart of the sauce’s robust tomato flavor.
• 400 ml tomato sauce: Adds body and richness to the sauce blend.
• 60 g tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor for that deep, savory punch.
• 15 g granulated sugar: Balances acidity, softening tomato sharpness.
• 2 tsp dried oregano: Classic herb that brings earthy notes.
• 2 tsp dried basil: Adds sweet, fragrant hints that brighten the sauce.
• 1.5 tsp fennel seeds (optional): A subtle, sweet licorice twist that elevates the sausage flavor.
• 1.5 tsp salt, plus more to taste: Enhances all flavors throughout the dish.
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
• 225 g cream cheese, softened: Makes the cheese layer irresistibly smooth and creamy.
• 450 g whole milk ricotta cheese: Light and fluffy texture for luscious mouthfeel.
• 120 g sour cream (full-fat): Brings tanginess and moisture to the filling.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the cheese mixture.
• 60 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated: Adds a salty, nutty undertone.
• 200 g mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts perfectly to create gooey, cheesy layers.
• 3 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried): Fresh herb brightness in the cheese filling.
• 1.5 tsp garlic powder: Amplifies garlic flavor in the creamy mixture.
• 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked weight approx. 250 g): Foundation of tender pasta layers that soak up sauce and cheese.
• 250 g mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping: For that irresistible golden, bubbly crust.
• 40 g Parmesan cheese, grated, for topping: Adds a crispy, flavorful crust finish.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

How to Make Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Crafting the Perfect Meat Sauce

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef along with the Italian sausage. Breaking up the meat helps it cook evenly and develop rich, savory flavors. Once browned, add your finely chopped onion and let it soften gently, releasing its natural sweetness. Next comes the garlic—just a minute to bloom its aroma before you stir in the marinara, tomato sauce, and paste. The secret touch is the granulated sugar, which rounds out the acidity. Sprinkle in oregano, basil, optional fennel seeds, salt, and pepper, then reduce heat and let that sauce simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes. This slow meld of flavors creates the rich base that makes this a true Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe.

Step 2: Whipping Up the Creamy Cheese Mixture

While your sauce simmers, mix together the softened cream cheese and ricotta in a bowl until completely smooth and luscious. This creamy blend is the secret to the rich texture that sets this lasagna apart. Fold in the sour cream, egg, Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, parsley, and garlic powder, mixing until everything is well combined and velvety. This aromatic cheese filling adds the luscious layers that balance the robust meat sauce beautifully.

Step 3: Preparing the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente—usually about nine minutes. You want them tender but still firm enough to hold their shape when layered. Drain them carefully and lay each noodle flat on a clean towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring those smooth layers that will build the lasagna.

Step 4: Layering the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Spread a generous layer of the meat sauce across the bottom of a 23 x 33 cm baking dish to keep the noodles from sticking and infuse flavor from the start. Place about four noodles on top, overlapping slightly. Next, evenly spread half the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layering with the next four noodles, the remaining cheese filling, and another third of the sauce. Finish with the last noodles on top, followed by the last portion of meat sauce, ensuring every bite is rich and balanced.

Step 5: Topping and Baking

Sprinkle the assembled layers generously with the 250 grams of shredded mozzarella and 40 grams of grated Parmesan. Go edge to edge so every slice will have that gorgeous golden, bubbly cheese crust. Cover the dish tightly with foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese, and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is perfectly golden and the sauce is bubbling invitingly.

Step 6: Resting and Garnishing

After pulling your Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe from the oven, let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the layers to settle so it slices cleanly and flavors meld even further. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant final touch that brightens the rich dish beautifully.

How to Serve Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbal freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy layers. For an extra touch, a light dusting of grated Parmesan right before serving can boost that savory umami note.

Side Dishes

Serve this luscious lasagna alongside crisp green salads dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for balance. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also complement the hearty flavors perfectly, turning your meal into a comforting Italian feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe straight from the baking dish family-style for a cozy dinner atmosphere. Alternatively, individual portions baked in small ramekins make for elegant single servings perfect for a dinner party. Garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil, this dish never fails to impress visually and tastefully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lasagna is a gift that keeps giving. Store your uneaten portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen beautifully as they sit, making the next day’s meal just as delightful as fresh.

Freezing

This Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble the entire dish, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding extra time if still frozen.

Reheating

For the best texture and taste, reheat individual portions in the oven at 175 degrees Celsius, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). Avoid microwaving when possible to maintain the creamy cheese texture and avoid rubbery noodles.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef and Italian sausage for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach, and use a vegetarian tomato sauce. The cheesy filling stays the same, keeping it rich and satisfying.

What type of Italian sausage should I use?

Choose sweet or mild Italian sausage for a classic flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, spicy Italian sausage works beautifully and adds a nice kick to the sauce.

Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?

Yes, cooking the noodles until just al dente ensures they layer well without becoming mushy. However, if using no-boil noodles, adjust the sauce thickness to prevent excess liquid.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

While cream cheese gives this lasagna its signature creaminess, you can substitute with mascarpone for a slightly richer taste or omit it altogether and increase ricotta and sour cream if needed.

How do I know when the lasagna is fully baked?

Look for bubbling sauce visible around the edges and a golden brown cheese crust on top. The lasagna should be heated through and set but still moist inside. Letting it rest before serving helps achieve perfect slices.

Final Thoughts

This Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s rich, comforting, and surprisingly approachable to make at home, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with every bite. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you’ll find yourself making it again and again, creating your own delicious family tradition.

Million Dollar Italian Lasagna Recipe

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• Author: Mary
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

This Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is a rich and hearty layered casserole featuring a savory meat sauce made with ground beef and Italian sausage, creamy cheese mixtures, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. Baked to golden perfection with mozzarella and Parmesan toppings, it’s an indulgent and classic comfort food perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

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Meat Sauce

• 500 g ground beef (80/20 for richness)
• 350 g Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 700 ml marinara sauce
• 400 ml tomato sauce
• 60 g tomato paste
• 15 g granulated sugar
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1.5 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
• 1.5 tsp salt, plus more to taste
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Cheese Mixture

• 225 g cream cheese, softened
• 450 g whole milk ricotta cheese
• 120 g sour cream (full-fat)
• 1 large egg
• 60 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 200 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 3 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 1.5 tsp garlic powder

Pasta and Topping

• 12 lasagna noodles (standard, uncooked weight approx. 250 g)
• 250 g mozzarella cheese, shredded, for topping
• 40 g Parmesan cheese, grated, for topping
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Add chopped onion and cook on medium-low until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add marinara, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, optional fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ricotta until completely smooth. Add sour cream, egg, Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, parsley, and garlic powder. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions (usually about 9 minutes). Drain and lay noodles flat on a clean towel or parchment to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 190°C. Spread a thick layer of meat sauce over the bottom of a 23 x 33 cm baking dish. Arrange one layer of noodles (about four), slightly overlapping. Spread half the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Spoon a third of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese. Repeat with another noodle layer, remaining cheese filling, and another third of the sauce. Top with a final layer of noodles and the last of the meat sauce.
5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the top with 250 g shredded mozzarella and 40 g grated Parmesan, ensuring even coverage to the edges.
6. Bake the Lasagna: Cover the dish tightly with foil, tented to avoid contact with the cheese. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue to bake 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before slicing and serving.

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Notes

• For best texture, do not overcook lasagna noodles; al dente is ideal since they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Fennel seeds are optional but add a traditional Italian sausage flavor.
• Using whole milk ricotta and full-fat sour cream adds creaminess and richness to the cheese layer.
• Letting the lasagna rest ensures cleaner slices and allows flavors to meld.
• If preferred, you can substitute fresh herbs for the dried oregano and basil for a fresher taste.