Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
For the pasta layer:
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1 lb (450g) spaghetti
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Salted water (for boiling)
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the meat sauce:
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1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a combo)
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
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1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
For the creamy layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
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1/2 cup sour cream
For the topping:
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the spaghetti:
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Boil pasta until just al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
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Make the meat sauce:
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In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
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Add garlic, cook for 1 minute.
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Stir in marinara sauce and seasoning. Simmer for 5–10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
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Make the creamy cheese layer:
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In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream until smooth.
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Assemble the casserole:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer half the spaghetti on the bottom.
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Spread all of the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta.
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Add the rest of the spaghetti on top.
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Pour meat sauce evenly over the top layer of pasta.
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Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
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Bake:
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Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
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Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Garnish and serve:
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Sprinkle with parsley and serve with garlic bread or a green salad.
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Tips:
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You can prep this a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
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Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a budget-friendly swap.
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Add red pepper flakes or Italian sausage for more kick.
Want a smaller batch version or a freezer-friendly prep guide?