Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe đ
If youâre craving a hearty, cheesy, and indulgent dish thatâs guaranteed to please a crowd, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. This mouthwatering recipe combines the classic flavors of spaghetti with a creamy, rich cheese layer and savory meat sauce, earning its name because it tastes like a million bucks! Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this casserole is a comforting masterpiece thatâs as easy to make as it is delicious.
In this post, weâll walk you through every step of creating this irresistible dish, share expert tips for success, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether youâre a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Letâs dive into the details of this crowd-pleasing casserole!
What is Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a baked pasta dish that elevates traditional spaghetti into a decadent, layered masterpiece. It features a robust meat sauce, tender spaghetti noodles, and a luscious cream cheese layer that melts into every bite. Topped with gooey mozzarella, this casserole is baked to golden perfection, creating a dish thatâs rich, flavorful, and undeniably satisfying.
The name âMillion Dollarâ comes from its luxurious taste and texture, making it feel like a gourmet meal without breaking the bank. Itâs a fantastic option for feeding a large group, as itâs budget-friendly, easy to assemble, and can be made ahead of time. Plus, itâs a hit with kids and adults alike!
Why Youâll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and melted mozzarella creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake it when youâre ready to serve.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite ingredients, from veggies to different meats or cheeses.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for a quick meal later.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Hereâs everything youâll need to create this delectable dish. The ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up any time the craving strikes.
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey, Italian sausage, or plant-based meat)
- 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce (choose your favorite brand or make homemade marinara)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Πcup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese for a smoother texture)
- œ cup unsalted butter, melted (divided)
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- œ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional, for added depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for a flavor boost)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking meat sauce
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole thatâs sure to impress. Weâve included tips to ensure perfect results every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 12 oz spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Avoid overcooking, as the noodles will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the spaghetti in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Tip: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in casseroles, preventing a mushy texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef (and optional diced onion and minced garlic) until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet for a lighter dish (optional).
- Stir in 1 jar spaghetti sauce and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
Tip: For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine, a pinch of sugar, or a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, Πcup sour cream, and 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta). Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. For extra flavor, stir in Πcup grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is softened (microwave for 15-20 seconds if needed) to avoid lumps in the mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour half of the melted butter (ÂŒ cup) into the bottom of the greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles evenly over the butter.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the noodles and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
- Top the cream cheese layer with the remaining spaghetti noodles.
- Pour the meat sauce over the top layer of noodles, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (and optional Parmesan) over the sauce.
- Drizzle the remaining Πcup melted butter over the cheese for extra richness.
Tip: For a crispier cheese topping, mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the mozzarella.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
- 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.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Tip: If you love a crispy top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely to avoid burning).
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: A good-quality spaghetti sauce and fresh cheeses make a big difference in flavor.
- Donât Skip the Butter: The melted butter adds richness and helps create a cohesive casserole.
- Customize the Sauce: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Freezing Instructions: Assemble the casserole but donât bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Recipe Variations
Make this casserole your own with these creative twists:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spicy marinara sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your spaghetti sauce is gluten-free.
- Meat Lovers: Mix in Italian sausage, pepperoni, or bacon for extra protein.
- Cheesy Overload: Add a layer of cheddar, provolone, or fontina cheese for even more gooeyness.
Serving Suggestions
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates the experience. Try these ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad balances the casseroleâs richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese complements the Italian flavors.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 550-600 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. For precise calculations, use a nutrition calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole without meat?
A: Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking as directed.
Q: Whatâs the difference between cottage cheese and ricotta in this recipe?
A: Cottage cheese has a slightly chunkier texture and tangier flavor, while ricotta is smoother and creamier. Both work well, so choose based on preference.
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes! Rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine are great alternatives, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a mealâitâs a warm, cheesy hug in casserole form! With its layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese filling, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether youâre cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers big on flavor and comfort without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Try this recipe today and share it with your loved ones. Donât forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece and tag us on social media! Have a variation or tip to share? Drop it in the comments belowâweâd love to hear from you.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 | Category: Main Dish | Cuisine: Italian-American
