If you’ve ever dreamed of an indulgent yet effortless pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is your new best friend. This baked spaghetti casserole combines creamy cheeses, hearty meat sauce, and perfectly tender noodles to create a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and unforgettable. Each bite reveals layers of rich flavor and gooey texture, truly living up to its decadent name. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe will bring everyone to the table with smiles and hearty appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but vital ingredients is the first step toward making a dish that sings with flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role—from the tender spaghetti providing the perfect base to the creamy cheese mixture that adds richness and the savory meat sauce that ties everything together.
- 16 oz spaghetti: Choose a quality brand to ensure perfect al dente texture that holds up in the bake.
- 1 pound ground beef: The foundation for the savory meat sauce; lean ground beef helps keep it from getting greasy.
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional): Adds an extra punch of flavor and depth; opt for mild or spicy based on your preference.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce: A flavorful base to coat the meat and pasta with rich tomato goodness.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides a luscious creaminess that melts beautifully throughout the casserole.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese: Adds a mild, creamy texture to balance the tangy tomato sauce.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances the moistness and adds a slight tang for depth.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate melty topping for that irresistible golden crust.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty finish that perfectly complements the richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces): Dotting the casserole with butter helps create pockets of buttery flavor and richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning each component and bringing the flavors into harmony.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a splash of color and a fresh herbal note for the final presentation.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Cook Pasta
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. While the oven warms up, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. This ensures perfect texture once baked. Drain the noodles well and set aside for layering.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Simmer the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage if you’re using it, breaking it up as it cooks. Once fully cooked and browned, drain away any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy. Stir in the marinara sauce, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step deepens the flavors and marries the meat with the sauce perfectly.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta (or cottage cheese), and sour cream. Stir or whisk until the mixture is smooth and velvety. This luscious blend is what gives the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe its signature rich and comforting mouthfeel.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Start by placing half of the cooked spaghetti into your prepared baking dish and scatter half of the butter pieces across the top. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles, ensuring every corner is covered with that creamy goodness. Layer the remaining spaghetti on top and dot with the rest of the butter pieces — these bits melt during baking, adding delightful richness.
Step 5: Top with Meat Sauce and Cheeses
Pour the prepared meat sauce evenly over the layered spaghetti and cheese. Finish by sprinkling the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese all over the top, creating that irresistible gooey golden crust after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish, uncovered, for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbling hot and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. After removing from the oven, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes — this helps everything set nicely for easier slicing and serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and a bright, herbal note that balances the richness of the casserole. Feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat or a drizzle of good olive oil to enhance flavor further.
Side Dishes
This hearty spaghetti casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added texture and freshness. Garlic bread is also a classic side that completes the comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation perfect for dinner parties. You could also layer the casserole in clear glass dishes to show off the inviting layers or sprinkle extra herbs and a dusting of Parmesan just before serving for a fresh, restaurant-quality touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare it completely (except for baking), cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, place a portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can cover it with foil to prevent the top from over-browning if needed. Microwaving works too, but baking preserves that lovely melty texture best.
FAQs
Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the ground beef and Italian sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives for that hearty texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to use both cream cheese and ricotta?
While cream cheese adds creaminess and tang, ricotta (or cottage cheese) contributes lightness and moisture. Using both creates the perfect balance, but you can adjust according to what you have on hand.
What kind of pasta sauce works best?
A good quality marinara sauce with robust tomato flavor works beautifully. Homemade or store-bought, just choose one you love since it’s a key flavor component.
Can I prepare this recipe entirely ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving for a convenient meal option.
How spicy is the dish if I add Italian sausage?
The heat depends on your sausage choice. Mild sausage keeps it family-friendly, while spicy sausage adds a pleasing kick. You can adjust based on your heat tolerance.
Final Thoughts
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your cooking repertoire—comforting, creamy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Its ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd make it a go-to for busy nights or special dinners alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this hearty, cheesy delight with your friends and family. Once you do, it’s bound to become one of your favorites too!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich and creamy baked pasta casserole combining hearty ground beef and Italian sausage with layers of spaghetti, a luscious blend of cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream, all topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, this classic American-Italian inspired dish is perfect for family dinners and feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 oz spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Toppings and Additions
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Brown Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) until browned and fully cooked. Drain off excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Sauce: Stir the marinara or pasta sauce into the browned meat mixture, combine well, then let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Mix Cheese Blend: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring even distribution of all ingredients.
- Assemble Layers: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the prepared baking dish. Dot with half of the butter pieces for richness. Spread the cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer evenly. Add the remaining spaghetti on top and dot with the remaining butter pieces.
- Add Meat Sauce and Cheese: Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer of spaghetti. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire casserole for a bubbly, cheesy topping.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time on a busy day.
- Choose mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your flavor preference for a personalized heat level.
- Excellent for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or potluck meals.
- Leftovers freeze well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
