Million Dollar Lasagna is the rich, layered pasta bake that lives up to its name—overflowing with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a savory blend of marinara and béchamel sauces. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or prepping comfort food for the week, this indulgent dish delivers restaurant-level satisfaction from your home oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, cheesy layers with bold, meaty flavor
Freezer-friendly and ideal for meal prep
Customizable with vegetarian or sausage options

Ingredients Breakdown

12 lasagna noodles – Traditional or no-boil; forms the hearty structure of the lasagna.
1 pound ground beef – Can be swapped with sausage or plant-based meat for variety.
15 oz ricotta cheese – Creamy base for the cheesy filling.
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For that irresistible gooey, melty layer.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor to each layer.
2 cups marinara sauce – A classic tomato base that ties it all together.
1 cup béchamel sauce (optional) – Adds rich, velvety smoothness (highly recommended for that “million dollar” texture).
1 egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – Brings in a savory herb flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the meat and cheese mix.
Fresh basil (optional) – For garnish and a touch of brightness at the end.

Tips and Tricks

Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat for heat.
Use a deep baking dish to prevent overflow.
Letting the lasagna rest ensures clean, neat slices.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian: Replace meat with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or lentils.
Sausage swap: Use spicy Italian sausage for bold flavor.
Cheese lovers: Add provolone or fontina between layers.
Low-carb: Try with zucchini slices instead of pasta.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Finish the meal with tiramisu or panna cotta for an Italian feast.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
To Reheat: Thaw overnight and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Million Dollar Lasagna

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This rich and indulgent lasagna earns its name with layers of creamy ricotta, hearty meat, melty mozzarella, and a touch of béchamel for extra decadence. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for special dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

12 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil)
1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, or plant-based alternative)
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup béchamel sauce (optional, for extra creaminess)
Fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Noodles

If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook according to package instructions.
Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.

3. Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

4. Mix the Ricotta Layer

In a bowl, combine:
- Ricotta cheese
- Egg
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Stir until smooth and well blended.

5. Assemble the Lasagna

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
Add 3 noodles to cover.
Spread a third of the ricotta mixture.
Add a layer of cooked meat.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat layers (sauce, noodles, ricotta, meat, cheese) two more times.
Finish with noodles, remaining marinara and béchamel (if using), and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

6. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. Let It Rest

Allow the lasagna to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Don’t overcook the noodles—they will continue to cook in the oven.
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
For extra browning, broil the top for the last 2 minutes (watch closely).

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American