Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, indulgent baked pasta dish that combines the best elements of spaghetti and lasagna. Layers of creamy cheese, flavorful meat sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together to create a dish that tastes like a million bucks. This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or simply treating yourself to a comforting, cheesy delight.
Ingredients:
- 16 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 48 oz marinara sauce
- 8 oz cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup butter, sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional Variations:
- Swap ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti al dente according to package directions.
- Drain well and return the pasta to the pot. Toss with half of the marinara sauce to coat evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add Italian sausage or ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and cook until no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat and mix in the remaining marinara sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese (or ricotta), cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Place half the butter slices in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the spaghetti evenly in the dish.
- Layer the cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
- Place the remaining butter slices over the spaghetti.
- Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich & Creamy: The cheese mixture adds a luxurious texture.
- Hearty & Filling: Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! Let me know if you’d like more variations or serving suggestions. 🍽️✨
You can also check out a detailed version of this recipe here.