Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

If you are craving comfort food that is rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly combines tender spaghetti noodles with a luscious cheese mixture, hearty meat sauce, and melty mozzarella that all bake together into a bubbling, irresistible casserole. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a beloved dinner staple, especially when you want something cozy and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is a breeze because it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each add their own magic. From the savory ground meats to the creamy cheeses, every element plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so special.

• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles: The essential base, providing a sturdy yet tender backbone to hold all the sauce and cheese.
• 1/2 pound ground beef: Adds rich meatiness and umami depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage: Brings a hint of spice and extra savory flavor complexity.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Classic seasoning to enhance and balance the flavors in the meat mixture.
• 1 small onion (chopped): Offers sweetness and aromatic depth once sautéed with the meats.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives that irresistible garlicky warmth that complements the tomato goodness.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: Creates the saucy, tangy base that ties everything together.
• 3 Tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, silky touch to the pasta and keeps it from sticking.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Gives a luscious creaminess and mild tang to the cheese layer.
• 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds brightness and smooth texture to the cheese mixture.
• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese): Provides a delicate, creamy texture to balance out the other cheeses.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, gooey top layer everyone loves.
• 2/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Offers salty, nutty flavor that finishes the dish beautifully.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Meat Sauce

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready when you assemble the dish. While that’s warming up, grab a large skillet and cook the ground beef and Italian sausage together. Season with salt and pepper, and be sure to crumble the meat well so every bite has wonderful texture. Once browned, drain most of the grease to avoid a heavy dish. Then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking just until the onion turns translucent and soft—this builds a fragrant, flavorful base. Stir in nearly all the marinara sauce, but hold back about half a cup for later in the recipe. Set this hearty meat sauce aside for now.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti until it’s just al dente — tender but still a little firm to the bite. This ensures the noodles won’t get mushy during baking. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it in a large bowl with the butter and the reserved half-cup of marinara sauce. This step adds flavor and keeps the noodles moist and beautifully coated for layering.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage (or ricotta) cheese. Mixing these three creates a creamy, tangy layer that brings the whole dish its signature richness and luscious texture. Make sure it’s smooth and well combined so it spreads easily over the noodles later on.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and pour half of the buttered noodles into the bottom. Smooth the cream cheese mixture over this pasta layer, creating an even, thick blanket of creamy goodness. Next, add the remaining noodles on top and spread them evenly. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and gently smooth it out to cover the entire surface. Finally, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese on top. This cheesy crown will bake to a golden, bubbly perfection.

Step 5: Bake until Bubbly and Golden

Pop the whole pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 20 minutes, and if the cheese begins browning too quickly, tent a piece of foil over the top to protect it. Once it’s hot, bubbly, and deliciously golden, remove from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting. This resting time allows the layers to set nicely, making serving neater and the texture perfect.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe even more inviting, fresh garnishes are the way to go. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that balances the rich flavors. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper can also add subtle brightness and complexity.

Side Dishes

This baked delight pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with its rich and hearty nature. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls soak up any extra sauce and satisfy carb lovers. For veggie options, consider sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli to add a healthy, flavorful punch alongside your spaghetti bake.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your presentation when serving the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, try dish it out onto warm plates and garnish each serving individually with a sprinkle of parmesan and a fresh herb leaf. Alternately, serve family-style directly from the baking pan to keep things cozy and communal. For a fun twist, before baking, sprinkle a handful of crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese for guests who enjoy a bit of heat in their dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have some Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe leftover, no worries! Just let the dish cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, where it keeps its flavor and texture well for quick reheating later.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Freeze unbaked assembled casserole tightly wrapped in foil or frozen, airtight containers. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

To reheat leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, warm individual portions in the microwave until bubbly, or reheat the whole pan in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil, until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara or a few drops of water before reheating helps maintain moisture and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, feel free to experiment with penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just keep the cooking time similar and make sure the pasta is al dente before assembling.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap out the meat for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and vegetables. Just season well for that depth of flavor the meat usually provides.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese if I don’t have it?

Ricotta cheese is a perfect stand-in, offering a similarly creamy texture and mild flavor that blends wonderfully in the cheese layer.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish up to a day before baking. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it fresh for dinner.

How spicy is the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe?

This recipe is generally mild, but using Italian sausage can add a slight spice. You can adjust the heat by choosing mild or spicy sausage according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe truly lives up to its name by delivering a rich, comforting experience that feels extra special while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a big family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own delicious memories around this irresistible spaghetti bake!

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