Name: Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 lb mild Italian sausage; 28 oz canned tomato sauce; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; Salt and pepper to taste; 9 no-boil lasagna noodles; 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

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If you want to impress your family or friends with a dish that feels luxurious yet comforting, the Million Dollar Lasagna is the perfect choice. This lasagna combines hearty ground beef and Italian sausage simmered in rich tomato sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and three kinds of cheese, all baked to gooey, golden perfection. Every forkful offers a delightful harmony of melty cheese, savory meat, and tender noodles that will have everyone asking for seconds. Million Dollar Lasagna is truly a show-stopping meal that turns any dinner into a special occasion.

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building the rich flavors and perfect textures of the Million Dollar Lasagna. From the savory meats to the blend of cheeses, every component contributes to the layers of taste that make this dish unforgettable.

1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a hearty and flavorful base for the meat sauce without too much fat.
1 lb mild Italian sausage: Adds a subtle spice and richness that complements the ground beef perfectly.
15 oz ricotta cheese: Brings creaminess that balances the tomato sauce and meat.
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures that irresistible, stretchy, gooey texture on every layer.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, salty finish that enhances the overall taste.
28 oz canned tomato sauce: The flavorful tomato base for the meat sauce, carrying the herbs and seasoning through the dish.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds an herby aroma and classic Italian flavor.
1 tsp dried basil: Complements oregano with a sweet and slightly peppery touch.
9 no-boil lasagna noodles: Convenient and designed to cook perfectly right in the oven.
2 large eggs: Help bind the ricotta mixture for creamy yet firm layers.
3 cloves fresh garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with deep, savory notes.
1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and richness when sautéed.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté aromatics and carry subtle fruity flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every element in the dish.

How to Make Million Dollar Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Meat Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavorful foundation you want in every spoonful. Then increase the heat just a bit and add the ground beef along with the mild Italian sausage. Brown the meats evenly, breaking up any clumps, until fully cooked and deliciously caramelized. Drain any excess fat for a leaner dish, then stir in the canned tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow this meat sauce to simmer gently for about 15 minutes so that all the flavors can meld beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Ricotta Layer

While your meat sauce simmers, it’s time to prepare the ricotta mixture. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the eggs, half of the grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything until it becomes smooth and uniform. The eggs act as a binder, ensuring your ricotta layer is creamy but holds its shape once baked. This mixture is the soul of the Million Dollar Lasagna, adding a silky texture that contrasts the savory meat perfectly.

Step 3: Layer Your Lasagna

Grab your baking dish and start layering this masterpiece. Begin with half of the rich meat sauce spread evenly on the bottom. Next, arrange one-third of the no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, making sure they cover the surface without overlapping too much. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella cheese—half of the total amount. Repeat this layering once more: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella. Finally, top the entire dish with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle the rest of the Parmesan cheese on top. These layers create the depth and richness for which Million Dollar Lasagna is famous.

Step 4: Bake to Cheesy Perfection

Cover your assembled lasagna with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes. During this time, the noodles soften as they soak up the sauce while everything melds together. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden, with some deliciously crisp browned edges. Letting the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting helps the layers settle and makes slicing neat and easier. Now you’re ready to serve a dish worthy of its name!

How to Serve Million Dollar Lasagna

Garnishes

Add a fresh, vibrant twist by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil over the lasagna just before serving. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top enhances the savory flavor and melts slightly on the warm cheese crust. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little good-quality olive oil or even a spoonful of balsamic glaze to brighten the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

Million Dollar Lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides creates a balanced plate. Consider serving a bright green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or simple steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or a rustic Italian baguette works wonders for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate—making every bite worthwhile.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve each portion layered like individual lasagna cups using muffin tins before baking. Another idea is to bake the lasagna in smaller portions personalized with guest’s favorite cheeses or added veggies. When entertaining, serve alongside antipasti platters with olives, cured meats, and roasted peppers to create a memorable Italian feast centered around your Million Dollar Lasagna.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Lasagna tastes just as amazing the next day. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen and the textures meld beautifully overnight.

Freezing

If you want a ready-to-go meal, Million Dollar Lasagna freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well with foil and place in an airtight container or freezer bag to keep it fresh for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before baking or freeze fully cooked lasagna and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat refrigerated or thawed lasagna, bake at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, usually about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Lasagna vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef and Italian sausage with plant-based meat substitutes or layers of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian twist without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What’s the secret to creamy ricotta in the lasagna?

Beating eggs into the ricotta cheese is the key—it binds the cheese while keeping it smooth and creamy throughout the bake. Also, adding a pinch of salt and some Parmesan enriches the flavor.

Do I need to pre-cook the noodles?

No-boil noodles are used here for convenience. They soften perfectly during baking by absorbing moisture from the sauce, making the process quicker and less messy.

Can I assemble the Million Dollar Lasagna the night before?

Yes, layering the lasagna the night before and refrigerating allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

How can I make the top of the lasagna extra crispy?

Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to let the cheese brown nicely. If you want it crispier, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Lasagna is one of those special recipes that feels like a hug on a plate: rich, cheesy, and filled with comforting layers. It’s a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser ready to create lasting memories around your dining table. Whether for weeknight family dinners or celebrations, give this recipe a try—you may soon find it becoming your go-to secret weapon for delicious, heartfelt meals.

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 15 reviews

Author: Simon
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Million Dollar Lasagna is a rich and hearty Italian-American classic featuring layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to perfection. This comforting dish combines lean ground beef and Italian sausage with aromatic herbs and tomato sauce for a delicious family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare using no-boil noodles.

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook Meat: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned completely, breaking up the meat and then draining any excess fat.
Simmer Sauce: Stir in canned tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently for approximately 15 minutes to develop flavor.
Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese with eggs, salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Assemble Lasagna: In a baking dish, start with layering half of the meat sauce evenly. Place a layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers once more.
Add Final Cheese and Bake: Top the assembled lasagna with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

Use no-boil noodles to save time, but ensure the sauce is sufficiently moist so noodles cook through properly.
Feel free to substitute mild Italian sausage with spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier slicing.
For a lighter version, consider using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American