Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Are you tired of making the same old spaghetti dish week after week? Do you want to impress your guests with a mouthwatering meal that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! This delectable twist on the classic spaghetti dish is sure to leave your taste buds begging for more. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of making this scrumptious casserole and provide you with some variations for those following a keto or low-carb diet. So, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of spaghetti noodles
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jar of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti
Begin by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked ground beef, onion, and garlic. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and cream cheese. Mix well until the two ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Next, layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles on top of the sauce. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by another layer of the meat sauce. Finally, add the remaining spaghetti noodles on top.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer of spaghetti noodles. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil to taste.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Keto and Low-Carb Variations:
If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to make this casserole fit your dietary needs. Instead of using regular spaghetti noodles, opt for spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. You can also replace the marinara sauce with a low-carb alternative or make your own using fresh tomatoes and herbs. Additionally, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef to reduce the fat content.
Tips:
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrients. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach work well in this casserole.
- For a touch of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce before layering the casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion:
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and budget-friendly dish that the whole family will love. With its creamy layers of spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s no wonder this casserole has earned its million-dollar name. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try and let the flavors speak for themselves!
FAQs:
Q: Can I freeze the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Simply assemble the layers in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions as usual.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: While spaghetti noodles work best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of pasta such as penne or rigatoni. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the pasta shape and size.
Q: Can I substitute the cheeses?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese, feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses that melt well.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to start cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. Bon appétit!
