Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
4. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds the “million-dollar” richness to the casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti evenly.
3. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the pasta.
4. Dollop and spread half of the creamy topping over the meat sauce.
5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese over the creamy layer.
6. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, creamy topping, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp side salad and garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and added flavor.
• For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

• Cream Cheese Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This ensures a smooth, creamy topping without lumps.
• Cheese Variations: Try mixing mozzarella with cheddar for a gooier, stretchy cheese layer.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead, covered, and baked the next day. Just add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
• Freezing Option: Bake it fully, let it cool, then freeze in portions. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a showstopper for any meal. With layers of tender pasta, savory meat, rich creamy topping, and melted cheese, every bite is a comforting, indulgent experience. It’s a dish that lives up to its extravagant name, turning ordinary spaghetti into a million-dollar feast.

If you want, I can also create a simplified “quick version” that’s ready in under 45 minutes for busy weeknights. Do you want me to do that?