The subject invention provides a method of manufacturing a multi-layered steel gasket assembly including a plurality of steel gasket layers each having a predetermined electrical resistance and including at least one coating layer of a material having an electrical resistance substantially greater than that of the steel gasket layers. The method includes the steps of: applying the coating layer of the selected material to at least one surface of at least one of the steel gasket layers to provide at least one coated gasket layer; assembling the coated gasket layer with at least one other steel gasket layer such that the coating layer prevents the use of traditional resistance welding in joining the gasket layers; and thereafter welding the assembled gasket layers together by either a JAG or CO2 laser to form the multi-layered steel gasket assembly.