Million Dollar Lasagna: Creamy, Hearty Family Dinner Delight

Name: Million Dollar Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 lb mild Italian sausage; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 28 oz canned tomato sauce; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 9 no-boil lasagna noodles; 2 large eggs; 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

By Maria Del

August 27, 2025

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There’s something about lasagna that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. Picture layers of creamy ricotta, hearty meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella melting together in perfect harmony. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making even the most stoic diners weak in the knees. It’s not just food; it’s comfort, nostalgia, and family all wrapped up in one cheesy masterpiece.

Now, let me take you down memory lane to a time my Aunt Mildred decided to unleash her “Million Dollar Lasagna” on our family reunion. Let’s just say that by the end of dinner, we weren’t just family; we were lasagna-lovers united in glorious defeat. The kind of defeat where you willingly unbutton your pants and declare yourself a member of the “I ate too much lasagna” club. If you’re looking for a creamy, hearty crowd-pleasing family dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds (and possibly thirds), then this is the recipe for you.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Million Dollar Lasagna is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
It offers a rich flavor profile with layers of cheese and savory meat sauce
Its visual appeal will make your dinner table shine like a star at an Italian bistro
Versatile enough for modifications based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability

I still remember the oohs and aahs as we dug in, forks clinking against plates, while laughter echoed around the dining table like music to my ears.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without too much grease.
Italian Sausage: A touch of spice adds depth; I prefer mild for a family-friendly option.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and rich, this is essential for that classic lasagna texture.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is the cheese that melts into gooey perfection—don’t skimp!
Parmesan Cheese: For extra flavor and that beautiful golden crust on top.
Canned Tomato Sauce: Choose high-quality sauce; it makes all the difference in taste.
Dried Italian Herbs: Oregano and basil blend beautifully to enhance flavors.
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: Saves time—no one wants to pre-cook noodles when there’s cheesy goodness waiting!
Eggs: These help bind the ricotta mixture together beautifully.
Fresh Garlic: Adds an aromatic punch; fresh is always best!
Onion: Chopped finely to sweeten the sauce as it cooks down.
Olive Oil: Just a splash to sauté those onions and garlic until fragrant.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t forget these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Browning Meat Mixture: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef along with Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon until no pink remains—drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Tomato Sauce and Seasoning : Pour in canned tomato sauce along with dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently while stirring occasionally—for about 15 minutes—to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Prepare Ricotta Mixture : In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with eggs, salt, pepper, and some Parmesan cheese until smooth. This will be your creamy layer of happiness!

Layering Time!: In a baking dish, spread half of your meat sauce mixture on the bottom. Place no-boil noodles over it before layering half of your ricotta mixture followed by mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake to Perfection : Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up; finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes before removing foil to bake for another 15 minutes or until bubbly.

With each step completed, you can practically hear applause from imaginary guests!

Taking it out of the oven is pure magic—the bubbling cheese creates an irresistible invitation that nobody can resist.

Enjoy your slice of Million Dollar Lasagna with family or friends—it’s more than just dinner; it’s an experience filled with warmth!

You Must Know

This Million Dollar Lasagna is not just creamy and hearty; it’s also a family favorite
The layers of rich flavors create an experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it impossible to resist

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat and onions, then layer the noodles, sauce, and cheese for optimal flavor. Baking at 375°F for 45 minutes ensures everything melds perfectly together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients or using ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture. Feel free to get creative with herbs!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving its creamy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

A good lasagna requires patience; let it rest after baking to avoid a gooey mess
Use high-quality cheese for a richer flavor and don’t skimp on seasoning
Always taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors!

I remember the first time I made this Million Dollar Lasagna; my family couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked if I could cook it for Thanksgiving—talk about pressure!

FAQs

FAQ

What makes this lasagna a crowd-pleaser?

The combination of creamy cheeses and savory meat creates an irresistible dish.

Can I make Million Dollar Lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese?

Ricotta cheese works wonderfully as a creamy alternative in this recipe.

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