Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – Ultimate Family Comfort Food

optimal recipes

By Maria

Daily Culinary Pleasures

Join WhatsApp
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – Ultimate Family Comfort Food

Sharing is caring!

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:

  1. Refrigeration: Store the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in freezer-safe bags.
  3. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheddar, gouda, or provolone.
  3. Is this casserole suitable for freezing? Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  4. 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

  1. Ultimate Cowboy Casserole – A Hearty Meal
    This casserole brings together savory flavors and a comforting texture, making it a great option for family dinners.
  2. 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!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – Ultimate Family Comfort Food

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

Scale

 

  • 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!

Notes

  • 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.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating