Million Dollar Lasagna

 Million Dollar Lasagna: A Rich and Irresistible Classic

If you're looking for a decadent, crowd-pleasing pasta dish, look no further than Million Dollar Lasagna. This isn't just any lasagna—it's layered with rich, savory meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy family meal, this lasagna delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich & Flavorful – A meaty, cheesy masterpiece that’s packed with layers of flavor.

✔ Comfort Food Classic – This is the ultimate home-cooked comfort dish, perfect for any occasion.

✔ Feeds a Crowd – A hearty, filling meal that serves multiple people, making it ideal for family gatherings.

✔ Easy to Make Ahead – Prepares beautifully in advance, so you can simply bake and serve when needed.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef – Provides a rich, hearty base for the sauce.

1 lb Italian sausage – Adds depth and a slight kick of spice.

1 medium onion, diced – Enhances flavor with a sweet, savory balance.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Forms the main base of the sauce.

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – Adds smooth texture and richness.

1 (6 oz) can tomato paste – Concentrated tomato flavor for extra depth.

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme for authentic Italian taste.

1 teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall flavor.

1 teaspoon sugar – Balances acidity in the tomato sauce.

For the Cheese Filling:

16 oz ricotta cheese – Creamy, slightly tangy, and essential for the rich layers.

8 oz cream cheese, softened – The "million-dollar" secret, adding a smooth, decadent texture.

1 cup sour cream – Creates a luxurious, velvety filling.

1 large egg – Helps bind the cheeses together.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor boost.

Other Ingredients:

12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained – The foundation of the dish.

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The perfect melting cheese for a gooey, golden topping.

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.

3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.

4. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar.

5. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop deep, rich flavors.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, egg, and Parmesan.

2. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Boil noodles according to package instructions, then drain and lay them flat to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking.

3. Layer the ingredients:

Add 3 cooked lasagna noodles side by side.

Spread ⅓ of the cheese mixture evenly.

Add ⅓ of the meat sauce over the cheese layer.

Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Repeat for two more layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set!

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Pro Tips for the Best Million Dollar Lasagna

✔ Use full-fat cheese – It melts better and creates the creamiest layers.

✔ Let it rest before slicing – Prevents a runny lasagna and helps it hold its shape.

✔ Make it ahead – Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.

✔ Double the recipe & freeze – This lasagna freezes beautifully for an easy meal later.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this lasagna with:

Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Classic Caesar Salad – Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast.

A Glass of Red Wine – Complements the rich, savory flavors beautifully.

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Final Thoughts: A Dish Worth Every Bite

This Million Dollar Lasagna isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a rich, cheesy, and unforgettable meal that brings comfort and indulgence to the table. With layers of creamy cheese, robust meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, every bite is irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for family dinner, meal prep, or a special gathering, this dish will leave ev

eryone asking for seconds.

Try this recipe today, and experience lasagna like never before! Let us know in the comments—what’s your favorite way to enjoy this dish?