If you’re on the hunt for a dish that truly impresses from the very first bite, your search ends here with the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe. This sumptuous, hearty lasagna brings all the comforting layers you love—rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles—together in one irresistible casserole. It’s not just any lasagna; it’s a dazzling family favorite with that special something that will have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a luscious homemade dinner, this Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe hits every note for a fulfilling and unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe are straightforward pantry staples and fresh essentials that work harmoniously to deliver mouthwatering texture and flavor. From savory Italian sausage to creamy cheeses, each element is carefully chosen to boost the dish’s richness and heartiness.
- 12 lasagna noodles: The perfect foundation, these noodles hold all the layers together without falling apart.
- 1-1/4 lbs Italian sausage or ground beef: Adds robust, savory flavor with a hint of Italian spices.
- 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: Provides a tangy, herb-infused tomato base that complements the meat beautifully.
- 2 (8-oz) cans tomato sauce: Boosts the saucy goodness and keeps the layers moist.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian aroma and depth.
- 1 (24-oz) container cottage cheese: Adds creamy texture and a slightly tangy bite to balance the richness.
- 1 (8-oz) block cream cheese, softened: Brings a velvety smoothness that elevates the cheese layer.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess and tenderness in the cheese filling.
- 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold the cheese mixture together perfectly.
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note and pretty flecks of green.
- 1 lb mozzarella cheese slices: Melts beautifully into gooey, golden layers that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty finish to the top of the lasagna.
How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF to get it nice and hot for baking. While it’s warming up, cook the 12 lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Once tender, drain them carefully and set aside so they don’t stick together later. This step is key because perfectly cooked noodles make for beautifully layered lasagna that slices like a dream.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, brown your Italian sausage or ground beef until it’s nicely caramelized and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat to keep your lasagna from getting greasy. Stir in the jar of spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and all those delicious flavors meld. Once ready, remove it from heat so it’s set for layering.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, and dried parsley. Mix this till it’s uniformly creamy and smooth. This luscious cheese blend is what makes the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe stand out with its rich, silky texture that contrasts beautifully against the meat sauce and noodles.
Step 4: Layer Your Lasagna
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. To begin, spread about 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom. Next, layer 6 lasagna noodles lengthwise, overlapping slightly to fully cover the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then add a third of the mozzarella slices on top for that irresistibly gooey cheese layer. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese, and sprinkle 1/4 cup parmesan on top. Repeat with another layer of 6 noodles, the remaining cheese mixture, a third of the mozzarella, the remaining meat sauce, and parmesan cheese. Finish by topping with the last of the mozzarella slices.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your lasagna with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake it covered for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to start bubbling. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes. This step is crucial to get that gorgeous golden cheese crust on top. Finally, let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing—this helps everything set and makes your serving neat and satisfying.
How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of green and fresh aroma that brightens the hearty flavors. You can also grate a little extra parmesan on top to enhance the cheesy, savory notes before serving. It’s these final touches that elevate your presentation and make every forkful a joy.
Side Dishes
Pair the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia is also genuinely delightful, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. For vegetables, steamed or roasted broccoli or a medley of grilled seasonal veggies complement the meal nicely without overwhelming the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, serve the lasagna directly from the pan with a generous side of fresh salad and garlic bread arranged beautifully around it. If you want to impress at a dinner party, cut the lasagna into neat squares and plate individually with a small garnish of basil and a drizzle of infused olive oil. You could even make smaller, individual-sized portions in ramekins for an elegant touch that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe is an absolute treat the next day. Cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. Just be sure to reheat it properly to retain that lovely creamy texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully and is ideal for making ahead. After assembling the lasagna, cover it tightly with foil and then plastic wrap before popping it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for busy weeks or prepping meals in advance. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then follow the baking steps as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, place a portion or the whole pan in a preheated 350ºF oven, covered loosely with foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through and bubbling. For individual servings, reheating in the microwave works well—cover your dish and heat in intervals until hot. You’ll find the taste just as dazzling as the fresh bake.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage in the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a great alternative if you prefer a milder flavor or want to control the seasoning yourself. Just brown it thoroughly and add your favorite herbs to keep that delicious Italian essence.
Is it necessary to use both cottage cheese and cream cheese?
Yes, combining cottage cheese with cream cheese creates the perfect balance of creaminess and lightness in the filling. Cottage cheese adds texture and tang, while cream cheese melts down smooth and rich. Together, they make the cheese layer uniquely luscious.
Can I prepare the lasagna completely in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe a day ahead, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh the next day. This makes your dinner prep so much easier, especially for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What can I substitute if I don’t have mozzarella slices?
If slices aren’t available, shredded mozzarella works just as well. The key is to have plenty of melty cheese that covers the layers evenly, so feel free to sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously on each layer.
How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?
Draining your cooked noodles well and simmering the meat sauce until it thickens help reduce excess moisture. Also, avoid over-saucing between layers. Letting the lasagna rest after baking lets any residual juices absorb back into the dish for a perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe that turns an everyday meal into a celebration. With every creamy, cheesy, and flavorful layer, you’re crafting comfort food at its finest. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—it’s destined to become your go-to lasagna for family dinners, special occasions, or just because you deserve a dish packed with pure satisfaction. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Lasagna is a hearty, comforting Italian-American casserole featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory Italian sausage simmered in a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture of cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella. Finished with a golden, bubbly top of melted cheeses and baked to perfection, this recipe serves 10 and makes a perfect family meal or gathering centerpiece.
Ingredients
Lasagna Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1¼ lbs Italian sausage or ground beef
- 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 2 (8-oz) cans tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (24-oz) container cottage cheese
- 1 (8-oz) block cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley
Toppings
- 1 lb mozzarella cheese slices
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the lasagna thoroughly and evenly.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly, preventing them from sticking together.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage or ground beef. Drain excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, and dried parsley. Stir thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Set this mixture aside.
- Layer Lasagna – Base: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of the pan. Lay 6 lasagna noodles lengthwise and overlapping to form a base layer over the sauce.
- Layer Cheese and Sauce: Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles. Top with one-third of the mozzarella slices. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese layer and sprinkle with ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process starting with the remaining 6 lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining cottage cheese filling, meat sauce, parmesan cheese, and finishing with the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the pan tightly with foil to trap moisture.
- Bake Covered: Place the covered lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until the lasagna is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before cutting and serving to allow it to set, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef for Italian sausage if preferred.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it hold together better when sliced.
- For a lower fat version, use part-skim cheese and lean ground meat.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added for extra flavor.
- Covering the lasagna while baking prevents it from drying out.
