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Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Family Favorite
If comfort food had a crown, the Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole would wear it proudly.
Rich, creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe combines everything we love about pasta, lasagna, and baked casseroles into one show-stopping dish. Whether it’s for a weekend dinner, a potluck, or a freezer-friendly meal prep, this casserole guarantees empty plates and happy hearts.
Why It’s Called “Million Dollar”
No, it won’t cost you a fortune—it earns its name because it tastes like a million bucks. The secret lies in the layers of spaghetti, seasoned meat sauce, a creamy cheese blend, and a bubbling golden topping. Each bite feels luxurious, yet the ingredients are humble and pantry-friendly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz (680 g) jar of marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 g) ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Pasta Base:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti until just al dente (about 1 minute less than the package suggests, as it will finish cooking in the oven).
- Drain well and toss with melted butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
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