Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich and creamy baked pasta casserole combining hearty ground beef and Italian sausage with layers of spaghetti, a luscious blend of cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream, all topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, this classic American-Italian inspired dish is perfect for family dinners and feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 16 oz spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Toppings and Additions
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Brown Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) until browned and fully cooked. Drain off excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Sauce: Stir the marinara or pasta sauce into the browned meat mixture, combine well, then let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Mix Cheese Blend: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring even distribution of all ingredients.
- Assemble Layers: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the prepared baking dish. Dot with half of the butter pieces for richness. Spread the cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer evenly. Add the remaining spaghetti on top and dot with the remaining butter pieces.
- Add Meat Sauce and Cheese: Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer of spaghetti. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire casserole for a bubbly, cheesy topping.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time on a busy day.
- Choose mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your flavor preference for a personalized heat level.
- Excellent for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or potluck meals.
- Leftovers freeze well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
