Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection.

It’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this dish is as rich and satisfying as its name suggests!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Large skillet (for meat sauce)
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Spatula or spoon

Ingredients

16 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage
24 oz marinara sauce
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 2 tbsp butter to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix the Creamy Layer:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Top with half of the meat sauce.
Layer the remaining spaghetti over the sauce, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
Sprinkle the top with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake the Casserole:

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Recipe Tips

Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
Custom Add-Ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

What to Serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Pair this dish with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or cheesy garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

2. Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or fettuccine are great substitutes for spaghetti.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!