Mediterranean Ultimate Million Dollar Creamy Beef Lasagna
This Mediterranean-style million dollar beef lasagna is rich, comforting, and unapologetically satisfying. Layers of tender pasta, savory beef sauce, and a luxuriously creamy cheese filling come together into a dish that feels special enough for guests yet familiar enough for family dinners. The Mediterranean touch comes from olive oil, herbs, and balanced seasoning that keeps the lasagna flavorful without feeling heavy. It is the kind of recipe that earns its name because every bite feels generous, comforting, and worth the effort.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
For the beef sauce
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
700 g (1½ lb) ground beef
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
800 g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
For the creamy cheese layer
250 g (9 oz) ricotta cheese
170 g (6 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup grated mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For assembling
9–12 lasagna sheets, cooked or oven-ready
1½ cups grated mozzarella, for topping
Olive oil or butter for greasing
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a deep baking dish.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Season with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 15–20 minutes until thick.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley until smooth.
Spread a thin layer of beef sauce in the baking dish, then add lasagna sheets.
Layer beef sauce, creamy cheese mixture, and pasta, repeating until finished. End with sauce.
Top with grated mozzarella, cover loosely with foil, bake for 40 minutes, uncover, then bake 15–20 minutes until golden. Rest before serving.
Tips
Use full-fat cheeses for the creamiest texture.
Let the beef sauce simmer to deepen flavor.
Season each layer lightly rather than all at once.
Resting the lasagna helps it slice cleanly.
Cover loosely with foil to avoid sticking.
Add a splash of water if sauce becomes too thick.
Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor.
Do not overfill layers to prevent sliding.
Grate cheese fresh for better melting.
Bake on the middle rack for even cooking.
Variations
Add spinach to the cheese layer for freshness.
Use ground lamb for a Mediterranean twist.
Add sliced mushrooms to the beef sauce.
Replace ricotta with mascarpone for extra richness.
Use whole wheat lasagna sheets.
Add chili flakes for gentle heat.
Mix roasted vegetables into the sauce.
Use béchamel instead of ricotta mixture.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for depth.
Make it lighter with reduced-fat cheeses.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze unbaked or baked for up to 2 months.
Why is it called million dollar lasagna?
Because of the rich, creamy cheese layers.
Can I use oven-ready pasta?
Yes, ensure enough sauce for hydration.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Cover and reheat in the oven at 170°C (325°F).
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and comforting.
Can I reduce the creaminess?
Use less cream cheese and more ricotta.
What side dishes pair well?
Green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free lasagna sheets.
How do I know it’s done?
The top will be golden and bubbling at the edges.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520–580
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 30 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: moderate
Conclusion
Mediterranean Ultimate Million Dollar Creamy Beef Lasagna is comfort food at its finest. Rich layers, savory beef, and creamy cheese come together in a dish that feels generous and satisfying without being overwhelming. Whether served for a family gathering or saved for leftovers the next day, this lasagna delivers warmth, flavor, and that unmistakable feeling of a truly special homemade meal.