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Million Dollar Spaghetti

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Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich, layered baked pasta dish that combines the best of lasagna and spaghetti in one indulgent, creamy, and cheesy casserole. With seasoned meat sauce, a velvety cream cheese filling, and perfectly baked noodles, it’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a million bucks.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb spaghetti noodles
  • 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a mix of both)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 4 tbsp butter, divided
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with 2 tablespoons butter to prevent sticking.
  3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer for 5–10 minutes.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta (or cottage cheese), sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Spread half of the spaghetti in the prepared baking dish. Layer the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, then pour the meat sauce over everything.
  6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use ground turkey and light cream cheese.
  • Use cottage cheese for a slightly less dense, creamier texture.
  • To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Freezes well—wrap tightly before baking and freeze up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/million-dollar-spaghetti/