If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing comfort food that delivers on both flavor and nostalgia, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is your new weeknight hero. This beloved baked pasta gem takes simple, everyday staples and transforms them into one gloriously cheesy, bubbly masterpiece that everyone at the table will crave. Imagine savory layers of tender spaghetti, a creamy, tangy cheese blend, hearty meat sauce, and gooey, golden cheese—all in one unforgettable casserole. Whether it’s a celebratory family dinner or a special treat for friends, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe always lives up to its rich name!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this dish is that you can find everything right in your pantry or local grocery store. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the unique taste, perfect texture, and inviting color that set the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe apart from ordinary baked pastas.
- Spaghetti (1 pound, cooked al dente and drained): The classic foundation; cooking it al dente helps the noodles hold up during baking.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness to the meat and keeps everything wonderfully moist.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): Brings hearty, meaty flavor to the sauce.
- Italian Sausage (1 pound, mild or spicy): Adds depth and just the right amount of zest—choose your spice level!
- Yellow Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Builds aromatic sweetness into the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Gives that irresistible savory punch.
- Marinara Sauce (1 jar, 24 ounces): The base of your saucy layer; use your favorite brand or homemade for extra personality.
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): Makes the cheese filling extra silky and indulgent.
- Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and creaminess to the cheese mixture.
- Cottage Cheese (1 cup): Offers a mild, creamy texture; swap for ricotta if you like.
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Creates that gooey, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Gives a nutty, salty finish on top.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, optional): A sprinkle of color and fresh flavor to brighten up the finished dish.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray—this guarantees easy serving and cleanup later.
Step 2: Brown the Meats and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in the olive oil, then add your ground beef, Italian sausage, and finely chopped onion. Cook them together until the meats are browned and the onion is soft, usually about 7 to 9 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic for the last minute, just until fragrant. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep your casserole rich but not heavy.
Step 3: Simmer Your Sauce
Pour in your favorite marinara sauce and give everything a good stir. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes—this step helps the flavors meld into a savory, tomatoey sauce that’s the perfect counterpart to those creamy layers.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Blend until completely smooth—no lumps! Add a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy dream layer is what separates the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe from any regular bake.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Add half of your cooked spaghetti to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Dollop and gently spread the cheese mixture over the noodles, then top with the remaining spaghetti. Next, pour the rich meat sauce all over the top and spread it out, ensuring every bite gets a bit of everything!
Step 6: Cheese It Up and Bake
Sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, covering the entire surface for maximum gooey and golden results. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Patience pays off here! Allow your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes once out of the oven. This keeps the layers intact when you slice—plus it brings everything to the perfect serving temperature. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like a pop of green.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For that “wow” effect, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top makes the colors pop and adds fresh flavor. A dusting of extra Parmesan cheese also brings a delightfully savory finish that ties everything together.
Side Dishes
This casserole is the main event! Pair it with crisp garlic breadsticks, a bright green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette, or some simple roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and heartwarming meal. The fresh, crunchy sides contrast beautifully with the creamy layers of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping individual servings into small ramekins for a plated dinner party. Or cut generous squares and serve alongside an antipasto platter for a festive twist. For a rustic family-style presentation, just serve straight from the baking dish at the table—let guests dig in and help themselves!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely, then cover your baking dish snugly with foil or plastic wrap. You can also transfer slices to airtight containers. The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully: assemble it fully (but don’t bake), then wrap tightly with several layers of foil and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil so they don’t dry out—about 20 minutes should do the trick. In a pinch, the microwave works too (just be sure to cover to keep the moisture in). The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so don’t be surprised if the leftovers taste even better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While traditional spaghetti is classic, you can easily substitute penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta for an equally delicious casserole.
Is there a substitute for cottage cheese in the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
Yes, you can swap ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese for a slightly smoother texture and a more Italian flair.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble the whole dish up to the point of baking, cover, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef and sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, or your favorite plant-based meat alternatives, for a hearty vegetarian version of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe.
What’s the best way to keep the layers from slipping?
The key is letting the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese and sauces to settle, so your layers hold together beautifully when sliced and served.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re out to wow the family, impress friends, or simply treat yourself, there’s nothing quite like sharing a bubbling, cheesy pan of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. Give it a try, and get ready for the rave reviews—one bite and it will earn a spot in your comfort food hall of fame!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. With layers of pasta, creamy cheeses, and savory meats, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained
Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or spaghetti sauce
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the meat: In a skillet, cook the ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer the casserole: Spread half of the spaghetti in the dish, top with cheese mixture, remaining spaghetti, and meat sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then bake uncovered until cheese is golden.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Use ricotta cheese as a substitute for cottage cheese if preferred.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
