Million Dollar Lasagna

Million Dollar Lasagna lives up to its extravagant name by delivering layers of rich, cheesy goodness combined with savory meat sauce and tender noodles. This recipe elevates traditional lasagna with the creamy addition of cottage cheese blended with cream cheese, sour cream, and egg—making every bite silky smooth and indulgent. The Italian sausage or ground beef simmers in a flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with Italian herbs, creating a hearty base that perfectly complements the cheesy layers.

This lasagna is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions where comfort food is a must. The mozzarella and parmesan cheeses melt beautifully, forming a golden, bubbly topping that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re a lasagna lover looking for a new twist or making this dish for the first time, Million Dollar Lasagna promises to be a delicious, satisfying centerpiece for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy Cheese Layers – The blend of cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream adds richness and a velvety texture.
2. Savory Meat Sauce – Italian sausage or beef cooked with tomato and Italian seasoning creates a robust flavor.
3. Classic Comfort Food – Perfectly layered noodles with gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be assembled in advance and baked later.
5. Family Favorite – Appealing to all ages with familiar, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles
• Italian sausage or ground beef
• Spaghetti sauce
• Tomato sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Cottage cheese
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Sour cream
• Egg (beaten)
• Dried parsley
• Mozzarella cheese slices
• Grated parmesan cheese

Variations

Meatless Version

Use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach instead of meat.

Spicy Twist

Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.

Extra Cheese

Mix ricotta cheese into the cheese layer for more creaminess.

Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or thinly sliced zucchini as noodles.

Low-Fat Option

Use lean ground turkey and low-fat cheese varieties.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Add spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning to the meat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Step 4

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, and dried parsley until smooth.

Step 5

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

Step 6

Layer 4 cooked noodles over the sauce, then spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles.

Step 7

Add one-third of the meat sauce over the cheese layer, then top with mozzarella slices.

Step 8

Repeat the layering two more times, finishing with mozzarella slices on top.

Step 9

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer.

Step 10

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 11

Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook noodles to avoid mushy layers.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for easy mixing.
• Let lasagna rest after baking to set layers for cleaner slices.
• Use a large enough dish to avoid overcrowding layers.
• For extra flavor, add fresh basil or oregano to the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve Million Dollar Lasagna hot, paired with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a classic Italian meal. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a perfect accompaniment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover tightly and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cream cheese instead of softened?

Softened cream cheese blends better, so bring it to room temperature before mixing.

2. How many servings does this lasagna make?

Typically serves 8 to 10 people.

3. Can I substitute ground beef for Italian sausage?

Yes, both work well; Italian sausage adds more flavor.

4. Do I have to boil the noodles?

Yes, unless using no-boil noodles specified on the package.

5. Can I add vegetables to this lasagna?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions.

6. How long can I store leftover lasagna?

Up to 4 days refrigerated in a sealed container.

7. Can I assemble this lasagna the night before?

Yes, cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake the next day.

8. What cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?

Provolone or fontina are tasty alternatives.

9. How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?

Drain noodles well and avoid excess liquid in the sauce.

10. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and increase ingredient quantities proportionally.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Lasagna is a luscious, comforting dish that takes classic lasagna to the next level with creamy cheese layers and savory meat sauce. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a hearty family meal. Easy to make ahead and packed with flavor, this lasagna is truly worth every penny of its “million dollar” name. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

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