Million Dollar Lasagna The Creamiest, Cheesiest Baked Pasta Ever

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta if preferred)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Other:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with garlic. Drain excess fat. Add marinara sauce and seasonings. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add cottage cheese, sour cream, and the egg. Stir in half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan. This creamy blend is what makes the lasagna “million dollar”!

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

In a greased 9x13 baking dish:

1. Spread a layer of meat sauce

2. Add 3 noodles

3. Spread a generous layer of the creamy cheese mixture

4. Repeat for 3 layers

5. Top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese

Step 4: Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freezer: Wrap tightly before baking and freeze for up to 3 months

• Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F for 60–75 minutes, covered. Or microwave individual portions.

What to Serve With Million Dollar Lasagna

• Garlic Bread or Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread

• Caesar Salad or Mixed Greens

• Roasted Veggies like zucchini or asparagus

• Red Wine or Sparkling Wate

Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Lasagna

🧀 Use full-fat dairy – For that true “million dollar” richness
🍝 Undercook your noodles – They’ll finish cooking in the oven
🥶 Freeze before baking – It holds up better this way
🥄 Let it rest before slicing – Prevents a messy plate
🌿 Add herbs – Basil or parsley adds a fresh touch to all that richness

Variations and Substitutions

• Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option

• Add spinach to the cheese layer for extra greens

• Spicy twist – Stir red pepper flakes into the meat sauce

• Swap out noodles for gluten-free or oven-ready versions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! Many prefer ricotta for a smoother texture, but cottage cheese offers a tangier flavor and lighter consistency.

Q: Can I make this lasagna the night before?
Absolutely. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed the next day.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes – this is perfect for batch cooking. Use two pans or a deep dish casserole.

Q: How do I keep the top from burning?
Cover with foil for the first half of baking, and remove it toward the end to brown the cheese.

Final Thoughts: The Lasagna That Wins Hearts

This Million Dollar Lasagna truly lives up to its name. With its creamy cheese filling, hearty meat sauce, and bubbly golden top, it's a comforting, crave-worthy meal your whole family will love.

It’s also a dream for meal preppers, potluck lovers, and anyone who wants a reliable, indulgent, and totally satisfying dish in their rotation.

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