Million Dollar Spaghetti

Introduction

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, cheesy, meaty, and satisfying, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti. This dish combines all the best parts of lasagna and baked spaghetti—creamy cheese layers, hearty meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta baked until bubbly and golden.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a crowd, this recipe truly tastes like a million bucks without costing one!

Ingredients List

For the Pasta Base:

1 lb spaghetti
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Substitutions:

Use cottage cheese in place of ricotta for a lighter version.
Substitute plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Try gluten-free pasta if needed.

Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the meat sauce

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic, cook 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the creamy cheese mixture

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Layer the casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread half the cooked spaghetti in the bottom.
Spread all of the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles.
Add the remaining spaghetti.
Pour meat sauce evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Dot with butter.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 8 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	26g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	30g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	790mg

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked spaghetti holds up better in the oven.
Let it rest: A 10-minute rest after baking helps the layers set.
Mix and match cheeses: Add provolone or fontina for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad.
Add a glass of red wine for an indulgent dinner.
Use leftovers for next-day lunches—it reheats beautifully!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too much sauce: Oversaucing can make the casserole watery.
Skipping the cheese layer: It’s the “million dollar” part—don’t leave it out!
Not greasing the dish: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a baked pasta dream come true—creamy, cheesy, saucy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a dinner party, this casserole never fails to impress. Try it once and you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic!