Let me tell you why the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute game-changer for dinner nights. This dish isn t just your ordinary spaghetti-it s a creamy, cheesy, and meaty casserole that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. I love this recipe because it s a crowd-pleaser that works beautifully for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want something that feels a little special but is still easy to make.
When I first tried this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, I was blown away by how the combination of creamy cheeses and savory meat sauce transformed simple spaghetti into something decadent and memorable. You’ll find that it s perfect for those days when you want a hearty meal that feeds a crowd and reheats wonderfully, making your weeknights just a bit easier and tastier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, Creamy Layers: The blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese creates a luscious texture that makes every forkful decadent.
- Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: This recipe makes a big batch, so it s great for family dinners or gatherings.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Using staple pantry ingredients, it comes together easily without sacrificing taste.
- Make Ahead & Freeze Friendly: You can prep it in advance and freeze it, which means less stress on busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe come together to balance rich, creamy, and savory flavors beautifully. Most of these are staples you might already have, but fresh onion, garlic, and quality sausage really make a difference.
- Spaghetti noodles: I stick with classic spaghetti as it holds up well in the casserole, but feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and richness – make sure to drain the grease well for a balanced dish.
- Ground Italian sausage or pork sausage: This brings a little spice and depth that truly elevates the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors without overwhelming.
- Small onion: Finely chopped to soften into sweetness and meld with the meats.
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic packs a fragrant punch that you can t skip.
- Marinara sauce: Using a good-quality marinara makes this such a breeze – homemade works, too!
- Butter: Tossed with the hot noodles to keep them silky and delicious.
- Cream cheese: Softened for that creamy, dreamy texture in the cheese layer.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness nicely.
- Cottage cheese or ricotta cheese: Either works – cottage cheese gives a lighter texture, while ricotta is more traditional and creamy.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, bubbly cheese topping everyone loves.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for salty, nutty goodness that finishes the dish perfectly.
Variations
One of the things I love about the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is how easy it is to tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. I often play with the cheeses or swap out meats depending on what I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious.
- Vegetarian Version: I ve made this many times without the meat, simply adding extra mushrooms or plant-based sausage, and it s just as satisfying.
- Sausage Substitution: Sometimes I use all ground beef or all Italian sausage – both ways work nicely, but the combo gives the best flavor balance.
- Pasta Choice: Feel free to swap spaghetti for penne or rotini if that s what you prefer; it just changes the texture a bit.
- Extra Veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or spinach in the sauce for added nutrition and color.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Prepare the Sauce
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the ground beef and Italian sausage together. I like to season with a little salt and pepper as it cooks. Once the meat is browned and crumbled, carefully drain most of the grease (this keeps the dish from getting greasy). Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking just a few minutes until the onions turn translucent and everything smells amazing. Then stir in most of your marinara sauce, saving about half a cup for later – don t skip this step because that sauce base is what brings the whole dish together.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti and Toss with Butter and Sauce
While the meat sauce is simmering gently, boil your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it s just al dente. This is key because the noodles will cook more in the oven, and you don t want mushy pasta. Once drained, immediately toss the hot spaghetti with butter and the reserved ½ cup of marinara sauce. This keeps the noodles moist and flavorful before layering.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth. I use a hand mixer to get it extra creamy, but a spatula works fine if you don t have one. This cheese layer is what sets the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe apart – it adds that luscious, silky texture that makes every bite feel like a little indulgence.
Step 4: Assemble Your Million Dollar Spaghetti
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by spreading half of the spaghetti noodles in the bottom. Next, smooth the cheese mixture evenly over this layer. Then top with the remaining noodles, followed by the meat sauce which you smooth out into an even layer. The final step is sprinkling the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese generously on top. It s a delicious layering that can t wait to come together in the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Hot and Bubbly
Bake your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly. Around 20 minutes in, peek in and if the cheese starts browning too quickly, tent the pan loosely with foil to prevent burning. When it s finished, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before you slice-it allows the layers to set up so serving is easier and cleaner.
Pro Tips for Making Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Don t Overcook Your Pasta: Cooking spaghetti just until al dente ensures the casserole doesn t turn mushy after baking.
- Use Both Meats for Depth: I find the combo of ground beef and Italian sausage adds the perfect balance of flavor and richness.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Giving the casserole time to set up means cleaner slices and better texture.
- Tent Cheese if Browning Early: Cover with foil mid-bake if the cheese starts to brown too fast, preventing bitterness.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
I usually sprinkle a bit of extra freshly chopped parsley or basil on top – it adds a fresh note and brightens up the richness of the casserole. Some crushed red pepper flakes are great if you like a little heat, and a drizzle of good olive oil can add a lovely touch.
Side Dishes
My go-to sides are a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and some garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. These simple sides balance out the rich pasta and round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to bake the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe in smaller ramekins or individual dishes – it looks fancy and feels personalized. Another fun trick is topping each serving with a little fresh tomato slice or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I always store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge if we don t finish it all the first night. It keeps well for about 3-4 days. When I reheat, I add a splash of water or extra marinara to keep it moist and avoid drying out.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. I prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When I m ready to eat, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If pressed for time, you can also bake from frozen by extending the baking time and keeping it covered initially to avoid over-browning.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer baking leftovers in the oven at 350°F with foil covering, so the pasta heats through evenly and the cheese stays melty without burning. If you re in a hurry, reheating in the microwave works too-just cover and add a little sprinkle of water to prevent dryness.
FAQs
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Can I use a different kind of pasta for the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for spaghetti, you can swap it with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so cook the pasta al dente before assembling to ensure a great texture.
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Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! Simply leave out the meat and add extra veggies or plant-based meat alternatives. Mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach are great options that add substance and flavor without compromising the creamy, cheesy goodness.
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Can I prepare the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble everything up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day before popping it in the oven. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days or hosting guests.
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How do I prevent the cheese from browning too much during baking?
If you notice the cheese getting too dark before the casserole is fully heated, just tent a sheet of aluminum foil loosely over the top. This shields the cheese and helps it melt perfectly without burning.
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Can I freeze leftovers after baking?
It’s best to freeze the casserole before baking for optimal texture. However, if you have leftovers after baking, you can freeze them in airtight containers; just be aware that the texture of the pasta may soften after freezing and reheating.
Final Thoughts
I can t recommend the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe enough-it s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that s surprisingly easy to put together. Every time I bring this to a potluck or family dinner, it s devoured quickly, and I love that I can prep it ahead when life gets busy. Give it a try-you’ll see why this recipe has earned its million dollar nickname in my kitchen, and I promise it ll become a favorite in yours, too!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty and comforting casserole featuring layers of al dente spaghetti, rich meat sauce made with ground beef and Italian sausage, and a creamy blend of cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a delicious twist on traditional spaghetti with its creamy cheese layers and savory meat sauce.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage or pork sausage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the assembled casserole.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove most of the grease. Add chopped onions and minced garlic and cook until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in all but 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce and set aside.
- Prepare Noodles: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer the hot pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add butter and the reserved 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, then toss gently to combine.
- Make Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage or ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking pan, spread half of the buttered noodles evenly. Smooth the cheese mixture over the noodles. Add the remaining noodles on top, then spread the meat sauce over the pasta layer evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly. Check around 20 minutes to ensure the cheese doesn’t brown too quickly; tent with foil if needed.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting, to let it set. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Million Dollar Spaghetti!
Notes
- To Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the assembly step, then cover and refrigerate for up to one day before baking.
- To Freeze: Assemble up to the baking step, cover with greased aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator 1-2 days before baking or bake from frozen with adjusted times.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat entirely or use plant-based meat substitutes.
- Meat Variations: You can use just ground beef or Italian sausage alone if preferred.
- Pasta Alternatives: While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use your favorite pasta type.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximate)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 605 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
