Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole takes classic baked spaghetti and makes it irresistibly indulgent. This creamy, cheesy dish features layers of pasta intertwined with rich beefy tomato sauce and a decadent five-cheese blend. Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s a comforting dinner that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the pasta and meat sauce:

1 pound spaghetti
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cups marinara sauce

For the creamy layer:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For assembly and topping:

2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Add 1 cup marinara sauce to the cooked beef, stirring to combine.
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce to coat the pasta evenly.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer as follows:
- Half of the spaghetti
- All of the cheese mixture, spread evenly
- Remaining spaghetti
- Meat sauce
Dot the top with small pats of butter and sprinkle with the remaining shredded mozzarella.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrients

Calories: 540 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 43 g
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sodium: 980 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g

What Makes This Recipe So Special

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole takes a classic pasta dish and transforms it into something extraordinary. It stands out for its decadent layers, creamy texture, and baked golden cheese topping. This recipe is not just a meal—it’s a showstopper. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Here’s what makes it a standout:

Creamy Layers: The addition of a cheese mixture with cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, and Parmesan adds an irresistible creamy texture that melts beautifully during baking.
Rich Meat Sauce: The ground beef and marinara sauce combination gives the casserole a robust, savory flavor that balances the creamy and cheesy layers.
Golden Topping: The casserole is finished with a layer of melted mozzarella cheese that turns golden and bubbly in the oven, making every bite indulgent and satisfying.
Easy to Assemble: Despite its layered appearance, this casserole is straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

One of the best features of this casserole is its ability to feed a large group. The recipe yields generous portions, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser for people of all ages, with its classic flavors appealing to even picky eaters. If you’re hosting guests, this dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked when needed, saving you time and effort while still delivering a homemade meal.

Key Features of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

This dish combines several elements that make it unique compared to a standard spaghetti bake. Here’s a closer look at its key features:

Layered Perfection: The layering process creates a casserole with distinct textures and flavors in every bite. The pasta, creamy cheese blend, and meat sauce are all perfectly balanced.
Creamy Cheese Blend: The use of multiple cheeses in the recipe is what gives the dish its luxurious, velvety texture. The cream cheese adds tanginess, ricotta adds richness, and Parmesan and mozzarella bring classic Italian flavors.
Customizable: While the traditional recipe is rich and indulgent, you can make modifications to suit your preferences, such as using ground turkey instead of beef or adding vegetables to the sauce.

Tips for Making the Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

To ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time, consider the following tips:

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the spaghetti slightly underdone, as it will continue to soften while baking. This helps the casserole maintain structure and prevents mushy pasta.
Drain Excess Grease: After browning the ground beef, drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
Spread Layers Evenly: Take the time to spread each layer evenly to ensure consistent flavors and textures in every bite.
Use Good-Quality Marinara Sauce: The marinara sauce is a key ingredient, so opt for a high-quality or homemade sauce for the best flavor.
Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is a classic, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and use a hearty vegetable mix such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach to create a vegetarian version.
Add Spices: Enhance the flavor of the meat sauce with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Experiment with Cheese: Try adding other cheeses like fontina or provolone for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Replace spaghetti with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles to make a lower-carb version of the casserole.
Extra Toppings: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and olive oil over the top before baking for a crispy topping.

Serving Suggestions

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas to create a complete meal:

Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread or breadsticks is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the cheesy, saucy goodness.
Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts as a light and flavorful side.
Wine Pairing: For adults, pair the dish with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the flavors of the meat sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a great make-ahead dish, making it a lifesaver for busy days. Here’s how to store it for future use:

Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered with aluminum foil. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Freezing: The casserole can be frozen either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To bake from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from overbrowning.

Why This Dish is Worth Making

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. Its hearty, comforting flavors make it a family favorite, and its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy cooks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a weeknight meal that will yield leftovers, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a dinner—it’s a warm, comforting experience that brings people together. Its rich layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce are a celebration of classic comfort food at its best. With its ability to feed a crowd, adapt to personal preferences, and be made ahead, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

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