Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the best of spaghetti and lasagna. It’s a rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks, this dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients:
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the cooked ground beef and stir to combine. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Cook the Spaghetti Noodles:
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and ricotta cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles evenly on the bottom.
- Layer half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
- Pour half of the meat sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve hot.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Meat Variations: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Herbs and Spices: Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: For an extra cheesy version, add more mozzarella or a combination of different cheeses like provolone or cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, ziti, or rigatoni. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta used.
Q: How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator? A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole? A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
Q: What should I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Q: How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together? A: After draining the cooked noodles, toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the comfort of spaghetti with the richness of a lasagna-like casserole. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the cheesy, creamy, and savory goodness of this classic recipe!
