Picture the bubbling, cheesy goodness of a baked pasta, but with the homey satisfaction of spaghetti and a dreamy, creamy layer hidden inside — that’s what makes the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe such a showstopper. This dish strikes just the right balance between familiar comfort and celebratory wow-factor, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. Flavors from savory ground beef, tangy marinara, luscious cream cheese, and a blanket of melty mozzarella all come together to create a meal everyone will be begging for seconds of. Trust me, the first taste will make you understand exactly why it earns its dazzling name.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The real beauty of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is how it transforms kitchen staples into something unforgettable. Each ingredient — from creamy cheeses to robust marinara — plays a vital role in taste, texture, and that irresistible golden top.

Spaghetti (16 ounces): The classic backbone of the dish, cooks up perfectly to soak in all the saucy, cheesy flavors.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Brings the richness and gets the meat and onions sizzling just right.
Ground beef (1 pound): Adds hearty flavor and substance for those satisfying bites.
Italian sausage (1/2 pound, casings removed): Infuses a subtle kick and depth with its spices.
Small onion (chopped): Gives the sauce its mellow, savory sweetness.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must for any self-respecting Italian-inspired bake, adds bold aroma.
Marinara sauce (24-ounce jar): The bright tomato base that binds everything together.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Lifts all the flavors; don’t skimp here.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a gentle kick and rounds out the sauce.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The secret to that silky, luxurious middle layer.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Adds a creamy, slightly sweet balance to the mix.
Sour cream (1/4 cup): Delivers a tang that brightens the richness (and makes the center extra dreamy).
Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts into that crave-worthy cheesy crown on top.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Gives a salty boost and crisp golden finish.
Butter (for greasing the dish): Ensures no delicious morsel gets left behind in the pan.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti until just al dente. You want it firm enough to hold up in the oven — nobody likes mushy noodles! When it’s done, drain and set aside, remembering that this is the base upon which all the magic happens in your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat up that olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion. Cook everything together, breaking the meat apart, until there’s no pink left and the onions are tender (about 7–8 minutes). Stir in the garlic and let it cook for an extra minute until fragrant. This step builds the hearty, savory backbone of your dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce, season with salt and black pepper, and give everything a nice stir. Lower the heat and let it gently simmer for 5 minutes — this helps all those flavors meld beautifully and thickens the sauce just enough to cling to every noodle.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Layer

While your sauce does its thing, grab a medium bowl and mix together the softened cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream until smooth. This is the luscious surprise at the heart of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, so be sure everything comes together for the silkiest texture!

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

It’s time for the fun part! Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent any sticky situations. Spread half of your cooked spaghetti in the dish, then dollop and spread that dreamy cheese mixture on top. Layer the rest of the spaghetti, then pour the meaty marinara sauce all over. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly for that golden, gooey top later.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden-brown. Resist the urge to dive in right away — let it rest for 10 minutes to set up for clean, irresistible slices.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil instantly brightens up every hearty square. For extra flair, scatter a handful of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil over each piece before serving — you’ll elevate the whole experience, making your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe shine.

Side Dishes

Pairing this rich, cheesy pasta casserole with something light and fresh is always a hit. A crisp green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette or some simple roasted vegetables makes for the perfect counterpoint. And don’t forget warm garlic bread — it’s practically a requirement for soaking up every last bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins for a restaurant-style touch. Or, slice thick squares for buffet or potluck spreads. You can even build mini versions in muffin tins if you want bite-sized, party-ready treats. However you serve it, that ooey-gooey cheese pull is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing it up to keep the cheesy layers just as irresistible for round two.

Freezing

Need dinner ready for a future busy night? Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. Baked leftovers freeze beautifully, too — just wrap individual portions for easy, homemade lunches.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F, covered loosely with foil, until warmed through and bubbly. The microwave also works for smaller portions, but let it sit a minute after heating so the cheesy center stays creamy instead of scorching hot.

FAQs

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta in the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe?

Absolutely! Cottage cheese is a great stand-in for ricotta, especially if you like a lighter texture. Just drain it well and mix it thoroughly for that rich, creamy layer.

What type Main Course

Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work beautifully here. Spicy will add a little heat, so pick your favorite and remove the casings before cooking for the best texture in your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything the day before, cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready. It makes entertaining or weeknight meal planning a breeze.

Does Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe freeze well?

It freezes exceptionally well, whether baked or unbaked. Just wrap it tightly to protect against freezer burn, and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

Letting the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking is essential. This allows the cheesy layers to set, making it much easier to slice and serve picture-perfect pieces every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cozy, joy-sparking meal that always wins rave reviews, you can’t go wrong with this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe. It’s one of those rare dishes that delivers ultimate comfort and plenty of flavor with minimal fuss. Give it a try — your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 21 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the richness of this Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe, a decadent and cheesy baked pasta dish that’s sure to impress. Layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and a golden crust come together in this ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

16 ounces spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 small onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Mixture:

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
butter for greasing the dish

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Instructions

Preheat oven and cook spaghetti: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cook meat sauce: Brown ground beef, Italian sausage, and onion in a skillet. Add garlic, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
Prepare cheese mixture: Mix cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream until smooth.
Assemble and bake: Grease baking dish. Layer spaghetti, cheese mixture, meat sauce, and top with cheeses. Bake covered, then uncovered, until bubbly and golden.
Rest and serve: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can prepare this dish ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if desired.
Enhance the flavor by adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American