Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Introduction

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and comforting dish that combines the best of baked spaghetti and lasagna. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and buttery pasta create a dish that tastes like a million bucks!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese

For Topping:

• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and mix with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Stir until smooth.
3. Fold in shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in an even layer.
3. Spread the cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
4. Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
5. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top.
6. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a green salad and garlic bread.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a gourmet touch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole delivers comfort, flavor, and indulgence in every bite. With its creamy layers and rich meat sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping, this casserole is worth every bite!