Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Introduction
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, comforting baked pasta dish that lives up to its name. Combining savory meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and tender spaghetti, this casserole is hearty, indulgent, and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a family favorite often served at gatherings, potlucks, and cozy weeknight dinners.
Description
This casserole layers buttery spaghetti with a velvety cream cheese mixture and a flavorful ground beef tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. Once baked, it forms a luscious, creamy center with a golden, cheesy top—comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients Quantity
1 lb ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup butter, melted
8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or Italian seasoning
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Meat Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, cottage (or ricotta) cheese, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Combine Spaghetti and Butter
Toss the cooked spaghetti with melted butter until evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the spaghetti in the baking dish
Layer the cream cheese mixture evenly on top
Add the remaining spaghetti
Pour the meat sauce over everything
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
Serve
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Million Dollar Spaghetti originated from American home cooking, especially in Southern and Midwestern kitchens. The name reflects its luxurious taste made from everyday ingredients. It embodies the tradition of casserole-style meals—practical, filling, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Optional Additions
Sautéed onions or bell peppers
Mushrooms for extra depth
Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Fresh basil or parsley garnish
Parmesan cheese topping
Tips for Success
Soften cream cheese fully for a smooth layer
Let the casserole rest before cutting for cleaner slices
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting
Make ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 450–520
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 780mg
(Values vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.)
Conclusion
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. Its creamy layers and bold flavors make it a standout dish that feels special while remaining wonderfully familiar.
Recommendation
Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also an excellent freezer-friendly dish, making it perfect for meal prep or sharing with loved ones.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While undeniably indulgent, this dish can be adapted for a lighter approach by using lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheeses, or whole-wheat spaghetti. Enjoying comfort food mindfully allows you to savor every bite while maintaining balance.
If you’d like, I can also:
Adjust this recipe for low-carb or lighter versions
Convert it into a printable or cookbook format
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