Million Dollar Italian Lasagna

Name: Million Dollar Italian Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1.1 pounds Ground Beef (80/20); 12.3 ounces Italian Sausage; 1 Medium Yellow Onion; 4 cloves Garlic; 3 cups Marinara Sauce; 1.7 cups Tomato Sauce; 2.1 ounces Tomato Paste; 0.5 ounces Granulated Sugar; 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano; 2 teaspoons Dried Basil; 1.5 teaspoons Fennel Seeds; 1.5 teaspoons Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper; 8 ounces Cream Cheese; 16 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese; 4.2 ounces Full-Fat Sour Cream; 1 Large Egg; 2.1 ounces Parmesan Cheese; 7 ounces Shredded Mozzarella Cheese; 3 tablespoons Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley; 1.5 teaspoons Garlic Powder; 12 uncooked Lasagna Noodles; 8.8 ounces Shredded Mozzarella Cheese; 1.4 ounces Grated Parmesan Cheese; 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley

Servings: 8 Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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A Cozy and Rich Comfort Food

Deliciously layered Million Dollar Italian Lasagna with rich meat and cheese

Ah, lasagna! The dish that warms the heart and soul, and boy do I have an absolute gem for you today: Million Dollar Italian Lasagna. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill lasagna; it’s like a cozy hug on a plate, starring ground beef, Italian sausage, and a cheesy filling that dreams are made of. Now, let me share with you all the insider tips and secrets that will elevate this dish to an unforgettable meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Let’s dive into why you’ll want to make this lasagna tonight. Think about a dinner where layers of comfort and flavor come together brilliantly. This Million Dollar Italian Lasagna delivers just that! The richness of the ground beef and sausage melds with a luxurious, creamy ricotta filling, and a hearty marinara sauce that’s simmered to develop deep flavors. Oh, and let’s not forget the gooey melted mozzarella on top—total game-changer!

What sets this recipe apart is the blend of seasonings that create a truly aromatic experience. Each bite is a crescendo of herbs and spices, with that hint of sweetness from the sugar balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. This isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it invites everyone to gather around the table and share a moment.

Gather These Ingredients

To create this Italian treasure, you’ll need a handful of quality ingredients:

Ground Beef (1.1 pounds, 80/20): Lean enough for flavor, fatty enough for juiciness.
Italian Sausage (12.3 ounces): The star of the savory show! Feel free to use mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
Medium Yellow Onion (1): Finely chopped for that aromatic base.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Because what’s Italian food without garlic?
Marinara Sauce (3 cups): A rich and flavorful sauce that holds everything together.
Tomato Sauce (1.7 cups): Adds depth and moisture.
Tomato Paste (2.1 ounces): For that thicker sauce texture.
Granulated Sugar (0.5 ounces): Just a pinch to cut through the acidity.
Dried Oregano (2 teaspoons): Essential Italian flavor.
Dried Basil (2 teaspoons): Bright and fragrant, adding a garden vibe.
Fennel Seeds (1.5 teaspoons, optional): Adds a lovely sweetness and complexity.
Kosher Salt (1.5 teaspoons, plus more): Seasoning is key!
Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1 teaspoon): A bit of heat.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): Brings a delightful creaminess.
Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (16 ounces): The heart of your cheesy layer.
Full-Fat Sour Cream (4.2 ounces): Extra richness—trust me, it’s worth it!
Large Egg (1): Acts as a binder for the cheese filling.
Parmesan Cheese (2.1 ounces, finely grated): For a nutty, salty kick.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (7 ounces): The gooey topping we all dream of!
Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley (3 tablespoons, finely chopped): Brightens up your dish.
Garlic Powder (1.5 teaspoons): Just in case you want an extra hit of garlic.
Lasagna Noodles (12 uncooked, about 8.8 ounces): Ensure these are sturdy enough to hold all the layers.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (8.8 ounces, for topping): A must for that golden finish.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1.4 ounces, for topping): Extra flavor on top—yes, please!
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): Because we eat with our eyes first!

How This Recipe Comes Together

Heat Your Skillet: Grab a large skillet, turn the heat to medium, and toss in your ground beef and Italian sausage. Break them up as they cook until brown all over—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed (but keep some for flavor!).
Add Aromatics: Stir in your chopped onion and let it cook on medium-low until it softens and starts smelling heavenly (about 5-7 minutes). Then, add that minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
Build The Sauce: Mix in your marinara, tomato sauce, and paste along with sugar, oregano, basil, fennel seeds (if using), salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let that simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This step is where all the magic happens—give it a stir occasionally!
Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and ricotta until smooth. Then mix in sour cream, egg, Parmesan, mozzarella, parsley, and garlic powder until it’s all creamy and fabulous.
Prepare Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your lasagna noodles according to package instructions (usually about 9 minutes). Drain them and lay them flat on a clean towel to avoid sticking.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and toasty for later.
Assemble the Lasagna: Start with a generous layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Layer on about four noodles slightly overlapping, followed by half of your cheese mixture. Now, add a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat this layering once more. Finish with a final layer of noodles and the rest of the sauce on top.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle that shredded mozzarella and Parm on top, making sure you cover every inch for maximum melty goodness.
Cover and Bake: Tent foil over the dish—this keeps the moisture in. Bake for 30 minutes.
Final Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Rest Before Serving: Let your lasagna sit for about 15 minutes—this makes slicing a breeze! Sprinkle with fresh parsley before dishing it out to your eager diners.

Best Way to Enjoy It

When it’s time to serve, place generous portions on a plate, and I highly suggest pairing it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to mop up any sauce left on the plate. A nice red wine, like Chianti, would also make for a delightful accompaniment. If you really want to elevate the experience, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving for that vibrant pop!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing leftovers? You lucky duck! Let your lasagna cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-5 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until it’s nice and hot. Those layers of flavor will still hold their charm!

Helpful Cooking Tips

Don’t rush the simmering sauce; it’s crucial for developing depth. More time equals more flavor.
For an extra zing, you could add a hint of red pepper flakes to your meat sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms in the cheese filling for a veggie twist!

Creative Twists

Feel free to experiment! Swap out the meats for ground turkey or chicken if you’re seeking a lighter option. You can also use gluten-free noodles if you’re avoiding gluten. Load it up with roasted vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, or even butternut squash can work beautifully. The beauty of lasagna lies in its versatility!

Common Questions

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use enough sauce to ensure they cook properly as they won’t absorb as much moisture.
How long does this take to prepare?
Overall, plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours, including prep and cooking time. It’s worth every minute!
What should I serve with it?
A simple side salad and some garlic bread make excellent companions.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead, cover tightly, and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps retain the lasagna’s integrity and keeps the cheese from drying out.

Creating this Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is more than just a recipe—it’s an opportunity to share love. I hope it brings warmth to your kitchen and your dining table. So roll up your sleeves, give it a go, and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Million Dollar Italian Lasagna

Cooking Method: Baking, Simmering Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course Recipe Keys: C Comfort Food Dairy F Family Friendly High Protein Non Vegetarian

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 60 mins Rest Time 15 mins Total Time 1 hr 45 mins

Cooking Temp: 375 F Servings: 8 Estimated Cost: $ 20 Calories: 600

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is an indulgent dish that combines ground beef, Italian sausage, a delicious creamy filling, and layers of rich marinara sauce. It's the perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 600kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 31g48%
Saturated Fat 14g70%
Trans Fat 1g
Cholesterol 120mg40%
Sodium 1040mg44%
Potassium 700mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 6g
Protein 37g74%

Vitamin A 800 IU
Vitamin C 5 mg
Calcium 400 mg
Iron 3 mg
Vitamin D 0 IU
Vitamin E 1 IU
Vitamin K 4 mcg
Thiamin 0 mg
Riboflavin 0.4 mg
Niacin 2 mg
Vitamin B6 0.2 mg
Folate 30 mcg
Vitamin B12 1.5 mcg
Biotin 0 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg
Phosphorus 400 mg
Iodine 0 mcg
Magnesium 30 mg
Zinc 3 mg
Selenium 20 mcg
Copper 0.2 mg
Manganese 0.3 mg
Chromium 0 mcg
Molybdenum 0 mcg
Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Let cool completely before storing leftovers. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keywords: lasagna, Italian, comfort food, ground beef, Italian sausage, cheesy

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Common Questions

Expand All:

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, just ensure to use enough sauce for them to cook properly.

How long does this take to prepare?

Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours total, including prep and cooking time.

What should I serve with it?

A side salad and garlic bread make excellent companions.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best way to reheat?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Mama K Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Katrina Petrova known as Mama K, a full-time food lover, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.