If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s loaded with flavor, look no further than this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. Packed with layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and al dente spaghetti, this dish is comfort food at its finest. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making it a go-to recipe when you want something filling and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Layer:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss the spaghetti with butter to prevent it from sticking together. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Top with all of the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly across the spaghetti. Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer. Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti, making sure it covers the entire surface.
Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you like, you can also add extra Parmesan cheese for a crispier top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional) for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole!
Cooking Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hoursbefore baking. Just cover it with foil and bake as instructed when ready to serve.
- Meat Options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even make a vegetarian version by using sautéed mushrooms and zucchini instead of meat.
- Cheese Variations: For a richer flavor, try mixing in different types of cheese like fontina, provolone, or cheddaralong with the mozzarella.
Variations
1. Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Swap out the spaghetti for ziti or penne pasta and follow the same instructions. This will create a hearty baked ziti casserole with the same rich, cheesy layers.
2. Spicy Million Dollar Spaghetti
Add a kick of heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat sauce. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce for an extra flavor boost.
3. Vegetarian Million Dollar Spaghetti
Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also substitute the meat sauce with a tomato basil sauce for a lighter, veggie-packed version.
4. Gluten-Free Million Dollar Spaghetti
Make this dish gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or pasta. Just be sure to check the ingredients in your marinara sauce for any gluten-containing additives.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version, substitute the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to cut down on the carbs. Use a sugar-free marinara sauce and ensure the cheeses are low-carb. This way, you’ll enjoy all the rich, cheesy goodness without breaking your keto diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta. It provides a slightly different texture but works perfectly for this recipe, especially if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Q: Can I make this without cream cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese or want a lighter version, you can omit the cream cheese and add more ricotta or cottage cheese to the mixture.
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of creamy, cheesy goodness with a rich, savory meat sauce. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try this recipe today and enjoy a million-dollar meal without the million-dollar price tag!
