Craving comfort food that will truly impress? Look no further than this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! It’s the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and hearty flavors that make for an unforgettable meal. This recipe combines layers of tender spaghetti, a savory meat sauce, creamy cheese mixtures, and plenty of melty mozzarella, making it a sure hit for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and return the spaghetti to the pot.
- Add the unsalted butter to the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread half of the buttered spaghetti in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the entire cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Add the remaining half of the spaghetti on top of the cheese layer.
- Pour the meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Cream Cheese Softening: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Butter the Pasta: Coating the cooked spaghetti in butter helps keep the noodles from sticking and adds extra flavor to the dish.
- Rest Time: Letting the casserole rest after baking makes it easier to cut and serve while also allowing the flavors to meld together.
Variations
Vegetarian Million Dollar Casserole
- Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
Spicy Version
- Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a bit of heat. You can also use hot Italian sausage instead of mild for a spicier kick.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish gluten-free. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When baking, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it is heated through.
Can I Freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What Can I Serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light Caesar salad is a great complement to the richness of the casserole.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and comforting meal that combines all the best flavors of a traditional Italian pasta bake. With layers of creamy cheese, tender spaghetti, and a flavorful meat sauce, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite. Try out the variations to make it your own, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
If you loved this recipe, feel free to share it with friends and family or save it for a special dinner night. Enjoy!
