There’s something about a warm, cheesy casserole that feels like a hug in food form. It’s the kind of dish that brings families together around the dinner table, sparking conversations and creating memories. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both comforting and indulgent, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is your answer. With its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese filling, this dish lives up to its name—it’s worth every bite.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, discover tips for customization, and get answers to all your burning questions. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Why Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a Crowd-Pleaser
Comfort Food at Its Best
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole combines all the elements of classic comfort food into one irresistible dish. Imagine tender spaghetti noodles layered with a savory meat sauce, a creamy cheese filling, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your cravings and leaves you feeling warm and content.
This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd, yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Easy to Make, Hard to Resist
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can master this dish with minimal effort. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple, yet the result is a meal that tastes like a million bucks.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti noodles | 16 oz |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Marinara sauce | 24 oz |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Butter | ½ cup (1 stick) |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the cheese filling evenly over the spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
- Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let It Rest:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
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- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to slice and serve.