The Best Million Dollar Spaghetti

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the spaghetti: Boil water in a large pot and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the beef mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Make the creamy layer: In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth and combined.
  5. Assemble the spaghetti: Layer half of the cooked spaghetti in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the creamy mixture, spreading evenly. Add half of the beef mixture on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  6. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining spaghetti, the rest of the creamy mixture, the rest of the beef sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Let the Million Dollar Spaghetti sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal.

Tips:

  • Make-ahead: You can assemble this dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
  • Add veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
  • Cheese variations: You can substitute the mozzarella for provolone, or even add ricotta to the creamy layer for an extra indulgent twist.
  • Ground beef alternatives: Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be used for a leaner or different flavor profile.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 8):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 500mg