Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the best elements of pasta and casserole, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is the one to try. This dish is packed with layers of rich and creamy goodness, featuring spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, a creamy cheese filling, and plenty of gooey melted cheese. It's called "Million Dollar" because it tastes like a million bucks—rich, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to make this irresistible pasta casserole, complete with tips, substitutions, and serving ideas.

What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is an Italian-American-inspired baked spaghetti casserole that’s loaded with layers of pasta, meat sauce, a creamy cheese mixture (often made with cream cheese, ricotta, or cottage cheese), and plenty of melted mozzarella. It combines the best elements of lasagna and baked spaghetti but adds an extra creamy twist. The result is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The layers of cheese, sauce, and pasta make every bite feel like a rich, indulgent treat.

Ingredients List for Million Dollar Spaghetti

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz Spaghetti – The base of the dish. Cooked al dente to hold its texture during baking.

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb Ground Beef or Italian Sausage – Adds a savory, meaty texture to the dish.
• 1 Small Onion (diced) – For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 3-4 Garlic Cloves (minced) – Adds a robust flavor.
• 2 cups Marinara Sauce (store-bought or homemade) – Forms the base of the meat sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste – For seasoning the meat sauce.

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened) – Adds creaminess to the cheese layer.
• 1 cup Ricotta or Cottage Cheese – Makes the dish creamy and light.
• ½ cup Sour Cream – Adds tang and creaminess.
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds that gooey, cheesy goodness.
• ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese – For a salty, nutty kick.
• 1 Egg – Helps bind the cheese layer.

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – For a cheesy, bubbly topping.
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese – For a golden, crispy finish.

Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ons

Want to customize your Million Dollar Spaghetti? Here are a few optional ingredients to try:

• 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes – For a bit of heat.
• ½ cup Cooked Bacon or Pancetta – Adds a smoky flavor.
• 1 cup Spinach or Kale (chopped) – For extra greens.
• 1 cup Mushrooms (sliced) – Adds an earthy flavor.
• 1 cup Black Olives (sliced) – For a briny kick.
• 1 teaspoon Crushed Fennel Seeds – For extra Italian sausage flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are a few substitutions and variations to make the recipe fit your dietary preferences or available ingredients:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the beef or sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
2. Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
4. Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream to lighten up the dish while keeping it creamy.
5. Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and sour cream, and swap the meat with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegan-friendly casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started on making Million Dollar Spaghetti with these easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg.
2. Mix until everything is well-combined and smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent the spaghetti from sticking.
3. Add half of the cooked spaghetti in an even layer.
4. Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer.
5. Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer.
6. Pour the rest of the meat sauce over the spaghetti, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the layers to set.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot.

How to Cook Million Dollar Spaghetti: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of how to make Million Dollar Spaghetti:

1. Cook the spaghetti: Boil the pasta until al dente, then drain.
2. Make the meat sauce: Brown the ground beef or sausage with onions and garlic, then add marinara sauce.
3. Prepare the cheese mixture: Mix cream cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
4. Layer the casserole: Layer the spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce in a baking dish.
5. Top with cheese: Cover with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Million Dollar Spaghetti:

1. Overcooking the Spaghetti: Be sure to cook the spaghetti until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, so you don’t want it too soft before baking.
2. Skipping the Egg in the Cheese Mixture: The egg helps bind the cheese layer, giving the casserole structure and creaminess.
3. Not Letting It Rest: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty dish that’s best served family-style. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread or breadsticks is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Add a Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

Here are a few ways to serve Million Dollar Spaghetti:

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, letting everyone scoop out their own portions.
• Plated Portions: Cut individual servings and plate them with a side of salad or garlic bread for a more formal presentation.
• Potluck Style: This dish is great for potlucks or gatherings because it stays warm and reheats well.

Presentation Ideas for Million Dollar Spaghetti

Make your Million Dollar Spaghetti look even more impressive with these presentation tips:

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cheese Pull: When serving, be sure to get that gooey cheese pull for an Instagram-worthy shot!
• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: For a rustic look, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is great for meal prepping or busy days.
2. Freezer-Friendly: Million Dollar Spaghetti freezes well. You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
3. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the casserole with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Yes! You can add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or any other vegetables to the cheese mixture or meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is a rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and tender spaghetti, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing it ahead of time for a gathering, it’s sure to impress. Serve it with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal that everyone will love. Enjoy every cheesy, satisfying bite!

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