The Best Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe: Homemade Heaven in Layers

Layers of rich, creamy goodness define this million dollar lasagna recipe that promises to steal the show at any dinner table.

Cheese lovers will swoon over the decadent blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan dancing between perfectly cooked pasta sheets.

Each bite delivers a harmonious mix of savory flavors that elevate this classic comfort dish.

The secret combination of ingredients creates a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.

Hearty ground beef and a perfectly seasoned sauce add depth to every mouthwatering layer.

Weekend cooking becomes an exciting culinary adventure with this restaurant-worthy lasagna.

Prepare to become the neighborhood’s most sought-after dinner host with this show-stopping meal that guarantees clean plates and happy faces.

FAQs

• Why is this called Million Dollar Lasagna?

The name suggests it’s incredibly delicious and rich, with premium ingredients that make it taste exceptionally good compared to traditional lasagna recipes.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent lean protein substitute that works perfectly in this lasagna recipe and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?

Drain excess moisture from ricotta cheese by letting it sit in a strainer, and make sure to use a thick marinara sauce to keep the layers firm and prevent excess liquid.

• What cheese combinations work best in this recipe?

While the recipe uses ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you can experiment with adding provolone or adding some sharp cheddar for extra depth of flavor.

Million Dollar Lasagna Features

• Grab Quick Breakfast: Perfect for busy mornings when you need a speedy, satisfying meal that combines sweet and savory flavors in one bite-sized treat.
• Customize with Ease: Experiment by adding shredded cheese, herbs, or even crispy bacon bits to the batter for a personalized twist that keeps everyone excited.
• Kid-Friendly Delight: Mini waffle bites are adorable, portable, and fun to eat, making them an instant hit with children and adults alike who love finger-friendly foods.
• Versatile Party Snack: Ideal for brunches, potlucks, or game day gatherings where guests can enjoy a delicious nibble that feels both comforting and special.

Essential Ingredients for Million Dollar Lasagna

• Lasagna Noodles: Classic pasta sheets that form the foundational layers of this hearty lasagna.
• Ground Beef: Rich and flavorful meat that provides a substantial protein base for the sauce.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce that adds depth and traditional Italian flavor to the dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy Italian cheese that creates a smooth and luxurious layer in the lasagna.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, melty cheese that adds a delicious gooey texture and rich flavor.

• Sour Cream: Adds extra creaminess and tanginess to the ricotta mixture.
• Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture and provides structure to the layers.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish to the top of the lasagna.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor of the lasagna.

Instructions for Million Dollar Lasagna

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfection

Cook lasagna noodles in salted water until they reach al dente texture. Carefully drain and set aside, keeping noodles separated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle Beef Brilliance

Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up meat into small crumbles while cooking.

Stir in marinara sauce, creating a rich and flavorful meat mixture.

Step 3: Whip Creamy Cheese Blend

• Ricotta cheese
• Sour cream
• Egg

Whisk ingredients until smooth and well-incorporated, creating a luxurious cheese mixture.

Step 4: Build Tasty Layers

• First layer: Lasagna noodles
• Second layer: Meat sauce
• Third layer: Ricotta mixture
• Fourth layer: Mozzarella cheese

Repeat the layering process 2-3 times for maximum deliciousness.

Step 5: Crown With Cheese

• Mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Preheat oven to 375F (190C).

Bake lasagna for 40 minutes until golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips for Million Dollar Lasagna

• Drain ricotta cheese thoroughly using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to remove excess moisture and ensure a thick, creamy texture.
• Add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano and basil to the meat sauce for a more complex, rich taste.
• Slightly undercook lasagna noodles before assembling, as they'll continue cooking in the oven and absorb sauce without becoming mushy.
• Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow cheese to set and make slicing easier, preventing a messy presentation.

Variation Ideas for Million Dollar Lasagna

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, mushrooms, or tofu crumbles. Add extra vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
• Low-Carb Lasagna: Swap traditional pasta sheets with thin zucchini slices or cauliflower sheets. Maintain the rich cheese and sauce layers for a satisfying meal.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or replace noodles with thinly sliced eggplant. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Mediterranean-Style Lasagna: Incorporate feta cheese, add oregano and basil, and mix in some olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.

Best Pairings with Million Dollar Lasagna

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Choose a bold Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich, meaty lasagna and cuts through its creamy cheese layers.
• Serve with Crisp Caesar Salad: Create a light, tangy side with romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and a zesty dressing to balance the lasagna's heavy flavors.
• Enhance with Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty, herb-infused garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce and add a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Refresh with Sparkling Water: Offer a chilled, effervescent drink to cleanse the palate between bites of the hearty lasagna.

Storing Million Dollar Lasagna Properly

• Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation and maintain texture.
• Wrap individual portions or whole lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.
• Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Cover lasagna with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top layer.

Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe

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4.9 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Layered with rich ricotta and savory beef, Million Dollar Lasagna delivers restaurant-quality comfort straight to home dinner tables. Cheese-laden noodles and hearty meat sauce create an irresistible Italian-American classic you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1 pound ground beef

Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 egg

Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 jar (24 ounces / 680 grams) marinara sauce

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Instructions

1. Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, then carefully drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles until no pink remains.
3. Pour marinara sauce into the beef, stirring to create a rich, cohesive meat sauce.
4. Whisk ricotta cheese, sour cream, and egg in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated.
5. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
6. Create the first lasagna layer: arrange noodles to cover the base, spread meat sauce evenly, dollop ricotta mixture across the surface, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat layering process, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.
8. For the final layer, generously top with mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to create a golden, crispy crust.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, watching for bubbling edges and a rich, golden-brown top.
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow layers to set before serving.

Notes

• Prevent soggy lasagna by patting cooked noodles dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Enhance flavor depth by adding a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of dried oregano to the meat sauce.
• Make it gluten-free by substituting regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta sheets or zucchini slices.
• Lighten the dish by using lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternative instead of beef.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 490 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg