Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delightfully rich and creamy pasta bake that’s filled and topped with layers of gooey cheese, savory meat sauce, and a decadent cream cheese mixture.

It’s not heavy or overly greasy either. I think it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or potluck dish, and if you’re not a fan of ground beef, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken. It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a comforting & hearty meal that’s sure to please, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a flavorful meat sauce and pair it with a creamy cheese mixture and tender spaghetti, you get the perfect casserole. The addition of a crispy cheese topping just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for a cozy, home-cooked meal, and this dreamy casserole reminds me of family gatherings and warm, comforting dinners. Not a fan of ground beef? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious with other meats.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook Spaghetti:
   • In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Mix Cheeses:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Layer the Casserole:
   • Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese mixture. Pour the meat sauce over the top layer of spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
6. Top with Cheese and Butter:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Dot with small pieces of butter.
7. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

45 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 5 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 520
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 25g

Enjoy this comforting and cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, perfect for any cozy dinner or family gathering!