There's nothing quite like a hearty slice of Million Dollar Lasagna bubbling with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish feel like a decadent indulgence, yet it's surprisingly simple to make at home.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to elevate my usual lasagna. With the addition of a luscious cream cheese layer, it instantly became a family favorite. Now, it’s my go-to dish for gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights in.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Lasagna

Get ready to fall in love with the most luxurious lasagna you'll ever make. This Million Dollar Lasagna is packed with irresistible flavors and textures, making it a must-try recipe.

First off, it’s incredibly creamy. Unlike traditional lasagna, this version has a special cream cheese and ricotta layer that adds an unbelievably smooth texture to every bite.

It’s also budget-friendly despite its extravagant name. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it an ideal dish to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s make-ahead friendly. You can assemble it in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Lastly, this lasagna is freezer-friendly. If you’re meal prepping or just love having leftovers, this dish freezes beautifully for a future meal.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this lasagna’s rich flavor and perfect texture lies in its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in making this dish truly special.

Ground beef and Italian sausage create the perfect balance of savory and slightly spicy flavors. The combination makes the meat sauce extra hearty and flavorful.

Marinara sauce is the base of the lasagna’s signature sauce. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or make a homemade version for a more personalized touch.

Cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream come together to form the velvety cheese layer. This is what gives the lasagna its indulgent “million-dollar” taste, making it extra rich and satisfying.

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese add the perfect cheesy topping. Mozzarella creates that classic melty stretch, while Parmesan brings a hint of sharpness to balance the flavors.

A 9x13-inch baking dish is essential for layering all the ingredients properly. Make sure to lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

How To Make This Million Dollar Lasagna

Making Million Dollar Lasagna is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect dish.

Start by browning the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. As the meat cooks, break it apart with a spoon until fully browned. Drain excess grease before adding the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

While the sauce simmers, prepare the creamy cheese mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, and an egg. Stir until smooth and well blended. This layer will add an incredibly rich and creamy texture to the lasagna.

Next, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them out flat to prevent sticking.

Now, it’s time to layer! Spread a small amount of sauce on the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of cooked noodles, followed by half of the cream cheese mixture, a portion of the meat sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final topping of cheese.

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this lasagna stores beautifully.

For refrigeration, allow the lasagna to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To freeze, assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This lasagna is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it to your taste or dietary preferences.

Want to make it lighter? Swap the ground beef and sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. These veggies add a delicious depth of flavor while keeping the dish hearty.

If you love a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra layer of heat.

Looking for a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or even thinly sliced zucchini as a noodle substitute.

No matter how you customize it, this Million Dollar Lasagna is bound to be a hit at any dinner table. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite comfort food!