Irresistible Million Dollar Spaghetti: Your New Comfort Food Favorite
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful twist on traditional baked pasta, layered with rich cheeses and savory sauce that warms both home and soul.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large pot
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz Spaghetti Cook until al dente.
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb Ground Beef Can swap with ground turkey or mushrooms.
- optional Italian Sausage Omit for leaner meal or use plant-based sausage.
- 1 medium Chopped Onion Shallots can be used as an alternative.
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic is best.
- 24 oz Marinara Sauce Use your favorite or homemade.
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Can substitute with basil and oregano.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
For the Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese.
- 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Mascarpone can be a substitute.
- 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Other hard cheeses can be used.
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Can replace with provolone or cheddar.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and toss with butter.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat.
- Sauté chopped onion for about 3 minutes, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan in a bowl until smooth.
- Mix 1 cup of the meat sauce into the cooked spaghetti to coat the noodles.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in the baking dish, add half of the cheese mixture, then repeat layering.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Customize with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste.