Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, indulgent comfort food classic that layers spaghetti, a creamy cheese mixture, savory meat sauce, and melty cheese for a dish that tastes like a million bucks. Perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead, this baked casserole delivers all the satisfaction of lasagna with a fraction of the effort.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti
ground beef (or Italian sausage)
onion (chopped)
garlic (minced)
marinara or pasta sauce
cream cheese
sour cream
cottage cheese or ricotta
butter
shredded mozzarella cheese
grated Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
dried Italian seasoning (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage or ricotta cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss the cooked spaghetti with a few pats of butter to prevent sticking.

Layer the casserole:

• Spread half of the buttered spaghetti in the bottom of the dish.
• Top with the cheese mixture, spreading evenly.
• Add the remaining spaghetti.
• Pour meat sauce over the top.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef.
Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese layer for extra veggies.
Try a spicy marinara for extra kick.
Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freeze assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this the same as baked spaghetti?
Similar, but the rich cheese layer makes it more decadent.

Can I use different pasta?
Yes, but spaghetti gives the best texture—avoid very small shapes.

Do I need to cover it while baking?
No, bake uncovered for a golden top.

What cheeses can I use?
A mix of cream cheese, cottage or ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is classic.

Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely—cheesy, meaty, and easy to love.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, skip the meat and use a veggie sauce or add sautéed vegetables.

What’s the best meat for this dish?
Ground beef or sausage adds flavor and richness.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two pans or a deep roasting dish and adjust baking time.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes—cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and crave-worthy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a make-ahead meal that delivers every time, this casserole lives up to its name in taste, ease, and satisfaction.

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