Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s a creamy, cheesy, comforting dish that lives up to its name: Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! It’s like a mash-up of baked spaghetti and lasagna — loaded with rich layers of pasta, meat sauce, and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd.

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🍝 Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

Pasta Layer:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 2 tbsp butter

Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a mix)

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Topping:

• 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella

• Extra Parmesan (optional)

• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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🔧 Instructions:

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

2. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with butter. Set aside.

3. Make the meat sauce:

   • In a skillet, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

   • Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

4. Mix the cheese layer:

   • In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta (or cottage cheese), sour cream, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth.

5. Assemble the casserole:

   • Spread half the spaghetti in the dish.

   • Spread the full cheese mixture over the spaghetti.

   • Add the remaining spaghetti on top.

   • Pour all the meat sauce over the top layer of spaghetti.

   • Sprinkle with mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan if desired.

6. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

7. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.

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🧄 Optional Add-Ins:

• Chopped sautéed onions or garlic in the sauce

• Red pepper flakes for a kick

• Layer of spinach or zucchini for a veggie boost

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Would you like a freezer-friendly version or a low-carb/keto adaptation?