Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
•1 lb ground beef
•1/2 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
•1 small onion, finely chopped
•3 cloves garlic, minced
•1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
•1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
•1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
•Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Cheese Layer
•1 cup ricotta cheese
•1 cup cottage cheese
•1/2 cup sour cream
•1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Assembly
•12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
•2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
•Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1.Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2.Simmer the Sauce
Add the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes to develop rich flavor. Set aside.
3.Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. This layer is what makes the lasagna extra rich and luxurious.
4.Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
•Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
•Add a layer of lasagna noodles.
•Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles.
•Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
•Add another layer of meat sauce.
Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, meat sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.
5.Bake
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
6.Rest and Serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Million Dollar Italian Lasagna is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience layered with flavor, texture, and pure indulgence. Creamy, cheesy, meaty, and perfectly baked, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite at your table. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete, unforgettable dinner. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this lasagna truly tastes like a million dollars.