Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a decadent baked pasta dish that combines tender spaghetti with a rich, creamy cheese layer and savory ground beef sauce. This comfort food favorite gets its name from its luxurious blend of three cheeses and sour cream that creates an irresistibly indulgent casserole. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish feeds a crowd and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, cheddar, and half the parmesan until well combined.
- In a 9 by 13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half the cooked spaghetti, then half the cheese mixture. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti and cheese mixture. Top with remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese on top. Dot with remaining 2 tablespoons butter cut into small pieces.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Practical Tips
Make ahead: Assemble this dish the night before and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time since it starts cold.
Cheese balance: Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and a creamier texture throughout the casserole.
Resting time: Always let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set slightly, making serving cleaner and easier.
How to Store
Store leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a 325-degree oven for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Common Questions
Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti? Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add extra baking time. If freezing after baking, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground Italian sausage, ground turkey, or ground lamb work wonderfully. You can also use a combination of meats for added flavor complexity.
Is this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivity. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.