Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is an indulgent, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of spaghetti, cheese, and a hearty meat sauce. This casserole is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night at home. Its name reflects the luxurious taste and the rich, creamy texture that makes it feel like a million dollars.
Ingredients:
| For the Spaghetti and Cheese Layers |
Amount |
| Spaghetti |
16 ounces |
| Unsalted butter, melted |
1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese |
1 cup |
| For the Meat Sauce |
Amount |
| Ground beef |
1 pound |
| Diced onion |
1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced |
2 cloves |
| Marinara sauce |
1 can (24 ounces) |
| Crushed tomatoes |
1 can (15 ounces) |
| Dried basil |
1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt and black pepper |
to taste |
| For the Cheese Filling |
Amount |
| Cream cheese, softened |
8 ounces |
| Sour cream |
1/4 cup |
| Grated mozzarella cheese |
1/2 cup |
| Grated cheddar cheese |
1/4 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped |
1/4 cup |
| Salt and black pepper |
to taste |
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained spaghetti with the melted unsalted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until the spaghetti is well coated.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated mozzarella cheese, grated cheddar cheese, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture as the bottom layer.
- Spoon the entire cheese filling mixture over the first layer.
- Add the remaining half of the spaghetti mixture over the cheese filling layer.
- Pour the meat sauce over the top layer of spaghetti.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
