Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta casserole that combines a rich meat sauce, a luscious cheese blend, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Baked to golden perfection, this indulgent dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it's the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish (1)
- Large skillet (1)
- Large pot for boiling pasta (1)
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Measuring spoons (1 set)
- Wooden spoon (1)
- Strainer (1)
Ingredients
- 1 lb Spaghetti dry
- 1 lb Ground beef or turkey, or sausage
- 24 oz Marinara sauce
- 8 oz Cream cheese softened
- 15 oz Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive oil optional, for sautéing
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, ensuring the pasta is al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Next, add half of the cooked spaghetti. Spread half of the cheese mixture on top of the pasta. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, remaining spaghetti, and the remaining cheese mixture. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and turn golden. For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Serve
- Let the Million Dollar Spaghetti rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with plant-based alternatives such as crumbled tofu, lentils, or a vegan meat substitute.
- Extra Creamy: For an even richer texture, feel free to add an extra layer of cream cheese or more cheese in the mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling it, covering it with foil, and refrigerating it overnight. Bake it the next day as directed, adding a few extra minutes for the cold temperature.
- Freezing: Million Dollar Spaghetti freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.