🍝💰 Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole ✨

A rich, cheesy baked pasta dish with layers of creamy filling, meat sauce, and melted cheese

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a beloved comfort-food casserole that combines the best parts of spaghetti and lasagna. It features pasta layered with a creamy cheese mixture, savory meat sauce, and a golden cheesy topping.

🍝 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

Pasta

• 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Meat Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz (680 g) marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Creamy Cheese Layer

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley

Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra Parmesan (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente.
2. Drain and toss with butter and 1 cup mozzarella.
3. Set aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

1. Heat oil in a skillet.
2. Cook ground beef and onion until browned.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Prepare the Creamy Layer

1. Mix cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, and parsley until smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Spread half the spaghetti in a greased baking dish.
3. Add the creamy cheese mixture.
4. Add remaining spaghetti.
5. Pour meat sauce over the top.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

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⭐ Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti

• Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best cheese pull.
• Let cream cheese soften before mixing for a smooth filling.
• Make it ahead and refrigerate overnight for even better flavor.
• Add spinach, mushrooms, or extra vegetables for a twist.

🍝 Flavor: hearty meat sauce 🍅 + creamy cheese layers 🧀 + tender pasta 🍝 = a rich, family-favorite casserole worth every bite! 😋