There’s nothing quite like the aroma of baked pasta wafting through the kitchen, enveloping you in warmth and comfort. This Million Dollar Spaghetti brings back those cozy family dinners where laughter and love flourished. It’s been a trending sensation for a reason who doesn’t want a cheesy, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug?
Imagine layers of spaghetti, flavorful ground meat, and a creamy sauce that sticks to your spoon. What sets this dish apart? It’s simple as can be, using pantry staples and ready in under an hour. Think of it like your grandma’s timeless casserole, but with a speedy twist for our busy lives. You’ll be delighted to know it also freezes beautifully for those chaotic weeknights!
I started making this comforting dish for my family back in 2017, inspired by my daughter’s love for spaghetti night. The first time I plated it, her eyes sparkled, and she declared it “the best pasta ever.” The secret? Mixing ricotta with creamy sauces to keep everything silky. With years of blogging behind me, this recipe has become a cherished staple in our household.
Yesica Andrews
Million Dollar Spaghetti: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole that has become a favorite for gatherings and family dinners. This million dollar spaghetti casserole combines layers of tender spaghetti noodles, a rich homemade meat sauce, and a velvety cheese mixture making it both budget friendly and incredibly satisfying. Perfect as a hearty main course, this creamy million dollar spaghetti recipe is simple to prepare and loved by all.
Set your oven to preheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage, seasoning with salt and pepper. Drain most of the fat. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onions turn translucent. Add all but 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce, reserving that 1/2 cup for later, then mix everything well and set aside.
Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and immediately place it in a large bowl. Add butter and the reserved 1/2 cup marinara sauce to the hot noodles and toss until combined.
In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread half of the spaghetti evenly. Layer the cheese mixture on top, smoothing it over the noodles. Add the remaining spaghetti as the next layer.
Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer of noodles and spread it out.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and freshly grated parmesan over the casserole.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and bubbly. Around the 20-minute mark, check the top; if the cheese is browning too fast, cover loosely with foil.
Allow the casserole to cool and set for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Notes
To prepare ahead, assemble the casserole through the layering step and refrigerate covered for up to one day before baking. You can also prep the sauce, noodles, and cheese separately 1 to 3 days in advance and combine just before baking. For freezing, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge 1-2 days before baking. Vegetarian option: omit meat or substitute plant-based sausage. Use your preferred pasta type if desired. Leftover sausage can be saved for other recipes like baked ziti or pizza casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort Food Perfection: Million Dollar Spaghetti creates a warm, cozy vibe that feels like a big hug on a plate.
Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, this meal is easy on the wallet while still being a crowd-pleaser.
Family Favorite: It’s an easy way to please both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Make-Ahead Delight: You can assemble it ahead of time, making dinner prep a breeze.
Key Ingredients & Tools
For this delightful dish, you’ll need the following:
Ingredient
Purpose
Spaghetti noodles
Base of the dish, providing that comforting pasta layer.
Ground beef and Italian sausage
The flavorful meat combo that makes the sauce hearty.
Marinara sauce
Brings depth and deliciousness, balancing all those cheesy layers.
Cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese
These create a creamy, dreamy cheese layer that binds the dish.
Shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese
Melty toppings that add a golden finish and rich flavor.
Equipment: Large pot, skillet, casserole dish
Essential for cooking and layering your ingredients.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F to get it nice and warm for baking.
Make the meat sauce: Cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then add in the chopped onion and minced garlic until tender. Stir in the marinara sauce, saving a bit for later.
Prepare the noodles: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, draining them just before they’re fully cooked. Toss the hot noodles with butter and the reserved marinara sauce.
Create the cheese layer: Mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the dish: In a greased 9×13″ casserole dish, layer half of the spaghetti, the cheese mixture, the rest of the spaghetti, and finish with the meat sauce. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Bake: Let it bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbling and golden. Don’t forget to check around 20 minutes, covering with foil if the cheese is browning too quickly.
Serve it up: Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing into this cheesy masterpiece. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Tweaks & Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely or swap in your favorite plant-based meat for a delicious vegetarian version.
Pasta Variety: While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Penne or rotini work beautifully too!
Extra Veggies: Sneak in some chopped bell peppers or spinach into the meat sauce for added nutrition.
Serving & Storage Tips
This festive dish is perfect for:
Sunday family dinners, where everyone gathers around the table for a warm meal.
Potlucks or gatherings, sure to become the star of the show.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven covered with foil to keep it moist. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to cook!
Step Summary
Step
Action
1
Preheat oven to 350°F.
2
Cook meat, onions, garlic, and marinara sauce.
3
Boil spaghetti, then combine with butter and sauce.
4
Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese.
5
Layer ingredients in a casserole dish.
6
Bake until bubbly (30-40 minutes).
Expert Says
Million Dollar Spaghetti combines classic flavors with a creamy twist. By using a blend of cheeses, you’re not only enhancing the dish’s texture but also increasing its calcium content, which is essential for bone health. Experimenting with different cheese types can elevate the dish while balancing taste and nutrition.
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The Long Road to Million Dollar Spaghetti
After numerous attempts, I finally crafted my version of Million Dollar Spaghetti. I learned the hard way that too much cheese can overwhelm the dish, but oh, the aroma that filled my kitchen as I tweaked the seasoningsit felt like a warm hug. With each trial, I got closer to the comforting perfection I was aiming for.
FAQs ( Million Dollar Spaghetti )
How long does it take to make Million Dollar Spaghetti?
This dish typically takes about 30 minutes to prepare and an additional 45 minutes to bake. So, in just over an hour, you can enjoy a comforting, cheesy pasta meal that the whole family will love.
Can I make ahead Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat, keeping in mind that it may need a few extra minutes in the oven if baked straight from the fridge.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Spaghetti works best in this recipe for its texture and ability to hold the creamy sauce. Feel free to use a similar pasta shape like linguine or fettuccine if you prefer, but spaghetti is the classic choice.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it directly from frozen, adding some time to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This meal pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. These options add freshness and balance to the rich, cheesy flavors of the casserole.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker serving, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Million Dollar Spaghetti turns outbubbling with cheesy goodness and inviting aromas that wrap you in a warm hug. Quick, easy, and utterly comforting, it’s perfect for any night of the week!
Want to add a twist? Try zucchini noodles for a lighter spin or toss in your favorite veggies for extra flavor. And if you have leftovers, trust me, they’re even better the next day! A little tip my aunt always sharedreheat in the oven to keep that bubbly texture intact.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Did you grow up with a dish like this? Snap a pic, share your memories, and save this recipe for your loved ones. Let’s keep the love for homemade meals aliveit’s where the heart truly is!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
