Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Here’s a recipe you can try:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes while you prepare the cheese mixture.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta cheese. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and mix again. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
- Repeat the layers: meat sauce, the rest of the spaghetti, and the remaining cheese mixture.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole!
Tips:
- You can make the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- You can also swap the ground beef with Italian sausage or a meat substitute for a different flavor.
This dish is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves cheesy, comforting pasta!