Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich and indulgent baked pasta dish that combines the best features of lasagna and traditional spaghetti. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, this recipe delivers luxurious layers of creamy cheese, hearty meat sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Despite its fancy name, this dish is budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for anyone who loves comfort food.

For creative meal ideas, you can explore recipes like The Best Granola Recipe to kick-start your mornings or check out the Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe for a savory dinner option that pairs well with pasta dishes.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that combine to create a show-stopping dish.

For the Spaghetti

1 pound spaghetti cooked al dente and 2 teaspoons of salt for boiling water.

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef or sausage, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.

For the Cheese Mixture

1 cup cottage cheese, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg (optional for structure), and a pinch of salt and pepper.

For the Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5–7 minutes to develop its flavors.

Make the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the optional egg. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the cooked spaghetti. Evenly layer half of the cheese mixture on top of the spaghetti, then add another layer of meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce, ensuring even layers for a balanced texture.

Add the Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of the casserole. The cheese topping will create a golden, bubbly crust during baking.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, golden, and bubbly. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Creative Variations

Million Dollar Spaghetti is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt for different preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. If you’re seeking a low-carb option, swap out the spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Add a spicy kick by using hot Italian sausage or a dash of red pepper flakes. For individual portions, assemble the layers in muffin tins or ramekins to create personalized servings.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with garlic bread for a classic combination or serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. To add a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Pair this dish with other comforting recipes like Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe for a hearty, cheesy spread. For a lighter side, try the Easy Ratatouille Recipe to balance the richness. If you’re craving more baked dishes, check out the Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe for another satisfying option.

Tips for Success

Cook the spaghetti al dente to avoid a mushy texture after baking. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like robust marinara sauce and premium cheeses to elevate the flavor. Spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite has a balanced mix of meat, cheese, and pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a baked pasta dish that combines the best features of spaghetti and lasagna. It is layered with al dente spaghetti, a savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping. This comforting casserole-style dish is rich, indulgent, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Why is it called Million Dollar Spaghetti?

The name “Million Dollar Spaghetti” comes from the dish’s luxurious, decadent flavor. While the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly, the taste and presentation make it feel like a million-dollar meal. It’s a creative way to describe how special and satisfying this dish is.

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, Million Dollar Spaghetti is an excellent make-ahead dish. Assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it fresh and follow the instructions for a golden, bubbly finish.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat it at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake it straight from frozen, adding an extra 20–30 minutes to the baking time.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make Million Dollar Spaghetti healthier, consider these substitutions:

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef or sausage.
• Choose low-fat versions of cheeses and marinara sauce.
• Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor.
• Incorporate more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the layers.

What’s the best pasta to use for Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Traditional spaghetti works best for this recipe because of its texture and size. However, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, linguine, or even penne for a fun twist. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid overcooking during baking.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from getting mushy?

Cooking the spaghetti al dente is key to avoiding mushy pasta. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process. Avoid over-saucing the casserole, as too much liquid can also make the pasta soggy during baking.

Can I customize the cheese layer?

Yes, the cheese layer is highly customizable. While the recipe calls for cottage cheese, ricotta, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you can adjust these based on your preferences. For a richer flavor, add shredded gouda or Gruyère. If you’re looking for a sharper taste, use extra Parmesan or cheddar.

What are some creative variations for Million Dollar Spaghetti?

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add layers of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or eggplant.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy version.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly dish.
• Individual Servings: Assemble the layers in ramekins or muffin tins for personal-sized portions.

What should I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti?

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, serve it with a light soup or a glass of red wine to complement the rich flavors.

How do I get a perfect golden crust on top?

To achieve a golden, bubbly crust, uncover the casserole for the last 10–15 minutes of baking. You can also broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to avoid burning the cheese.

What’s the difference between Million Dollar Spaghetti and lasagna?

While both dishes feature layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, the key difference lies in the type of pasta and the assembly. Lasagna uses flat, wide noodles, while Million Dollar Spaghetti uses long spaghetti strands. The cheese mixture in Million Dollar Spaghetti is often creamier due to the addition of cream cheese.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer homemade, a simple tomato sauce flavored with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs can elevate the dish even more.

How long does it take to bake Million Dollar Spaghetti?

The casserole typically bakes for 35–40 minutes at 350°F. If baking from frozen, add an additional 20–30 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and the cheese is fully melted.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the casserole in advance, portion it into meal-sized containers, and refrigerate or freeze it for future use. Reheat as needed for a quick and hearty meal.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich and indulgent baked pasta dish perfect for any occasion. Its layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy.

For more inspiration, try the Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe or the Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe to explore even more delicious options. Bring this recipe to your kitchen and discover why it truly lives up to its million-dollar name!