Introduction

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting, cheesy casserole that turns classic spaghetti into a rich, hearty meal. Layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheeses, and marinara sauce baked to bubbly perfection make this dish a family favorite.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 lb. spaghetti noodles
1 lb. ground beef*
½ tsp salt
½ tsp Italian seasoning**
1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce***
8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
½ cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Boil the spaghetti noodles to al dente according to package directions. Drain well. Add the noodles to the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with salt and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess liquid from the skillet.
Step 4: Pour ½ cup of the marinara sauce over the spaghetti in the casserole dish. Use tongs to gently toss the noodles in the sauce to coat them evenly.
Step 5: Add the remaining marinara sauce to the cooked ground beef in the skillet. Simmer over low heat for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 6: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 7: Spread the meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti in the casserole dish.
Step 8: Dollop the cheese mixture over the meat sauce, then use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the top.
Step 9: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the cheese layer.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 11: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, try mixing Italian sausage with the ground beef or substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
Use part-skim cheeses to reduce fat while keeping creamy texture.
Add chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a fresh, herby finish.

Storage

Store leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and baking as directed.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 128 reviews

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting baked pasta casserole that layers perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles with seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses. This hearty dish is baked until bubbly and golden, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or gatherings.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

1 lb. spaghetti noodles

Meat and Seasoning

1 lb. ground beef
½ tsp salt
½ tsp Italian seasoning

Sauces and Cheeses

1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole later.
Cook the spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well, then place the noodles evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with salt and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat.
Add sauce to the spaghetti: Pour ½ cup of the marinara sauce over the spaghetti in the casserole dish. Use tongs to gently toss and coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
Simmer the meat sauce: Add the remaining marinara sauce to the browned meat in the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the simmered meat sauce evenly over the sauced spaghetti noodles in the casserole dish.
Add the cheese mixture: Place dollops of the cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce. Use a spatula to carefully spread it out over the entire surface.
Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the cheese layer for a gooey, golden finish.
Bake and rest: Bake the assembled casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set.