I absolutely love sharing this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe because it s one of those dishes that instantly feels like a warm hug after a long day. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the layers came together to create a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dinner that everyone at the table couldn t get enough of. If you re looking to impress a crowd or just want to treat your family to a comforting meal, this is your go-to dish.
What makes this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe stand out is the perfect balance of flavors – from savory meat sauce to the rich cream cheese layer, every bite tastes like a little celebration. You ll find that it s great for busy weeknights because you can prep ahead and pop it in the oven when you re ready. Plus, it s super adaptable if you want to switch up the cheeses or add your own twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Layered Flavors: The combination of sausage, beef, and creamy cheeses creates a deep, satisfying taste in every bite.
- Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: My family always asks me to make this for gatherings – it s a guaranteed win!
- Easy to Prep Ahead: You can assemble it in advance and bake later, making dinner stress-free on busy nights.
- Adaptable Ingredients: Swap cheeses or use different meats for your own twist without losing that classic flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe work together beautifully to build layers of flavor and creamy texture. I like to use good quality sausages and fresh grated parmesan for the best taste.
- Spaghetti noodles: Use regular spaghetti and cook it just to al dente so it holds up in the casserole.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor; I prefer lean to keep it from getting greasy.
- Ground Italian sausage or pork sausage: Your choice! Adds a nice spice and richness.
- Salt and pepper: Season generously to bring out the meat s flavor.
- Small onion (chopped): Sautéed for sweetness and depth in the meat mixture.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Just enough for that punch without overpowering.
- Marinara sauce: I always save half a cup to toss with the pasta – it keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Butter: Tossed into the noodles to add silkiness and prevent sticking.
- Cream cheese (softened): The secret ingredient that makes the cheese layer silky and rich.
- Sour cream: Brings a slight tang and creaminess to the cheese mixture.
- Cottage cheese or ricotta cheese: Adds texture and balances the richness with a lighter touch.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey melty top layer everyone loves.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: The finishing touch for nutty, salty flavor on top.
Variations
I love encouraging my friends to make this recipe their own. Over time, I ve tried a few variations that add fun new twists or accommodate different dietary needs.
- Ground turkey or chicken: I swapped the sausage and beef for turkey once and was surprised how light and tasty it stayed.
- Vegetarian version: Use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils instead of meat – just as satisfying!
- Spicy twist: Add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce if you like a little heat.
- Different cheeses: Mixing in provolone or swapping ricotta for cottage cheese can change up the texture pleasantly.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Meat Sauce
Start by browning the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. I like to season it well with salt and pepper as it cooks, then drain most of the grease so it s not greasy later. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant – this base flavor makes a huge difference. Finally, stir in all but half a cup of your marinara sauce and set the mixture aside; it s going to bring the meaty, saucy goodness to your layers.
Step 2: Prepare Your Noodles
Cook your spaghetti exactly according to package directions – just until al dente. I recommend tasting a strand early to avoid overcooking. Drain the noodles, then immediately toss them with the butter and the reserved half cup of marinara sauce while they re still hot. This little trick not only keeps them from sticking but also infuses the pasta with flavor that complements the meat sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese (or ricotta if you prefer). Mix them together really well until smooth and creamy. This layer is the key to the Million Dollar status of this spaghetti – it transforms it from just a pasta bake into something luxurious and unforgettable.
Step 4: Assemble Your Layers
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and start by spreading half of the spaghetti noodles in the bottom. Next, smooth the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles in an even layer. Spread the remaining spaghetti noodles on top, then pour your meat sauce over everything and smooth it out carefully. Finish by evenly sprinkling shredded mozzarella and freshly grated parmesan on top – this cheese combo melts into a golden, bubbling finish.
Step 5: Bake and Rest
Bake your assembled Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until everything is hot and bubbly. Around the 20-minute mark, check on the cheese – if it s browning too quickly, just tent a piece of foil over the dish to prevent burning. When it s done, let it rest for at least 15 minutes to set up properly, which helps when slicing and serving. Trust me, the wait is totally worth it.
Pro Tips for Making Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Don t Overcook Your Spaghetti: Cooking noodles just al dente keeps the texture perfect after baking-overcooked noodles turn mushy.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and has more flavor than pre-grated versions, elevating the dish.
- Reserve Marinara Sauce: Tossing some sauce with pasta prevents dryness and unifies all layers in flavor.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Waiting allows the layers to set and makes slicing much neater and less messy.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
I love sprinkling a little fresh chopped basil or parsley on top right before serving – it adds a dash of color and fresh herbal aroma. If you want an extra pop of flavor, a little crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil works wonders too.
Side Dishes
My favorite sides alongside this millionaire casserole are a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette and some fresh garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus balance the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I ve served Million Dollar Spaghetti in small individual ramekins for a fancy touch – guests love their own personal cheesy casseroles! Another idea I tried was layering it in glass baking dishes to show off those vibrant layers, making it just as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers I keep covered tightly in the fridge and they last well for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so sometimes I find the second-day spaghetti even more delicious!
Freezing
When I freeze this recipe, I like to portion it out into airtight containers so I can grab just what I need. It freezes surprisingly well and defrosts gently in the fridge overnight without losing any creaminess or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, I cover the dish loosely with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, which keeps the cheese from drying out. Sometimes I add a splash of milk or a little extra marinara sauce to refresh the creaminess if needed.
FAQs
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Can I make the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef and sausage for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. Using ricotta or more cottage cheese helps maintain the creamy texture while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
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What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage or ricotta cheese gives the creamy layer its signature richness. For topping, freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, and freshly grated parmesan adds sharpness and depth.
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Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for making ahead! You can assemble everything and refrigerate it, then bake when you re ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if coming from cold.
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How do I avoid the noodles getting mushy?
Cooking your spaghetti just until al dente and tossing it immediately with butter and marinara sauce helps prevent mushiness. Also, avoid letting the noodles sit too long after cooking before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe has become a staple in my home, not just for the incredible flavors but because it turns a simple pasta dinner into a special occasion. Whether you re cooking for a busy weeknight or want to wow guests, it s a comforting recipe you ll keep coming back to. I really hope you enjoy making it as much as I do – trust me, once you try it, this recipe earns every bit of its million dollar reputation!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting baked pasta dish featuring layers of spaghetti tossed in marinara and butter, a creamy cheese mixture, a savory meat sauce with ground beef and Italian sausage, and topped with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, this hearty casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd and offers a rich twist on classic spaghetti.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (reserved)
Meat Sauce
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage or pork sausage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 23 1/2 ounces marinara sauce
Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove most of the grease from the pan. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in all but ½ cup of the marinara sauce and combine well. Set aside.
- Prepare Noodles: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the noodles and immediately place them in a large mixing bowl. While still hot, add the butter and the reserved ½ cup of marinara sauce, then toss to coat the noodles evenly.
- Make Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese or ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the buttered spaghetti noodles evenly on the bottom. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Add the remaining noodles on top, then pour the meat sauce evenly over the pasta layer and smooth it out. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes until the dish is hot and bubbly. Check at about 20 minutes; if the cheese is browning too fast, tent a piece of aluminum foil over the top to prevent over-browning.
- Rest and Serve: After baking, let the casserole rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows it to set up for easier slicing and enhances flavor melding. Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti!
Notes
- You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta cheese for a smoother texture in the cheese layer.
- Ground Italian sausage can be replaced with pork sausage if desired.
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti; al dente texture is best to avoid mushiness after baking.
- If you want a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/15th of recipe)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
