Welcome, dear food lovers! Today, we’re diving into the rich and creamy world of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, a dish that brings a luxurious touch to a budget-friendly meal. With layers of cheesy goodness and savory meat sauce, it’s easy to see why this dish is called the “Million Dollar Spaghetti.” Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will soon become one of your favorites!
Introduction
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole has its roots in Italian-American cuisine, drawing inspiration from traditional baked pasta dishes. What sets it apart is the combination of various cheeses, meats, and a perfectly balanced marinara sauce that results in a rich and hearty dish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or large gatherings, this casserole is a must-try for fans of both baked spaghetti and comfort food recipes. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for potlucks or family reunions because it’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:
- 12 ounces of spaghetti noodles (cooked and drained)
- 1 pound of ground beef (substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (choose mild or spicy based on preference)
- 24 ounces of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup of cottage cheese (can be substituted with ricotta cheese)
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Optional Substitutions:
- Pasta: Swap out the spaghetti noodles for ziti or rigatoni for a fun twist.
- Cheese: Use ricotta in place of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Meat: Combine beef with turkey or use pork sausage for added flavor.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – Step by Step
Follow these steps to create the best Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:
Step1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step2: Cook the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step3: Add the Marinara Sauce
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meat mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer on low for 5-10 minutes.
Step4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well blended.
Step5: Layer the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles in the bottom of the dish.
- Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Add the remaining noodles over the cheese mixture.
Step6: Top with Meat Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the meat sauce over the top layer of noodles and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese over the top.
Step7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step8: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and onions will enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta (al dente) as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle in some fresh basil or parsley to brighten up the flavor profile.
Cooking Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
- Best Cooking Techniques: Use a deep casserole dish to prevent overflow while baking.
- Equipment Hacks: Use a mandoline to get even slices of onions.
- Cheese Layering Tips: Layer the cheese evenly to ensure that every bite has a balanced, cheesy flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Pair this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole with:
- Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is a perfect complement.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh, tangy Caesar salad adds a nice contrast.
- Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like Merlot enhances the rich flavors of the casserole.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 520
- Fats: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Proteins: 32g
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A and calcium
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Calcium: 20% of daily value
- Iron: 15% of daily value
Storage and Leftovers for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
To store and enjoy leftovers:
- Refrigeration: Store the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in freezer-safe bags.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
- Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheddar, gouda, or provolone.
- Is this casserole suitable for freezing? Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- What can I serve with this casserole? Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or even roasted vegetables.
Related Recipes for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole – A Hearty Meal
This casserole brings together savory flavors and a comforting texture, making it a great option for family dinners. - Sausage Balls Recipe – Easy & Tasty
Perfect for brunch or as a party appetizer, these sausage balls are packed with cheesy goodness.
Conclusion
There you have it – the perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole recipe to wow your family and friends. Don’t forget to give this a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. We’d love to hear your personal twists and variations on this dish. Enjoy, and happy cooking!
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Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – Ultimate Family Comfort Food
Description
Welcome, dear food lovers! Today, we’re diving into the rich and creamy world of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, a dish that brings a luxurious touch to a budget-friendly meal. With layers of cheesy goodness and savory meat sauce, it’s easy to see why this dish is called the “Million Dollar Spaghetti.” Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will soon become one of your favorites!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of spaghetti noodles (cooked and drained)
- 1 pound of ground beef (substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (choose mild or spicy based on preference)
- 24 ounces of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup of cottage cheese (can be substituted with ricotta cheese)
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Optional Substitutions:
- Pasta: Swap out the spaghetti noodles for ziti or rigatoni for a fun twist.
- Cheese: Use ricotta in place of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Meat: Combine beef with turkey or use pork sausage for added flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meat mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer on low for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well blended.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles in the bottom of the dish.
- Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Add the remaining noodles over the cheese mixture.
Step 6: Top with Meat Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the meat sauce over the top layer of noodles and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and onions will enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta (al dente) as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle in some fresh basil or parsley to brighten up the flavor profile.
