Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Looking for a pasta dish that's as rich in flavor as it is in name? Say hello to Million Dollar Spaghetti! This indulgent casserole combines the comforting taste of spaghetti with a creamy, cheesy layer that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It's a hearty dish that feels decadent without requiring a million bucks to make. Whether you're preparing a cozy family dinner or planning for a potluck, Million Dollar Spaghetti is the perfect crowd-pleaser.

Read on for a step-by-step guide, tips, substitutions, and more. You'll soon see why this dish is worth every penny—and every bite!

What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a baked spaghetti casserole that's packed with layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and pasta, all baked to golden perfection. It's often described as a cross between lasagna and spaghetti due to its rich, layered composition. What sets this dish apart from your typical spaghetti bake is the luxurious layer of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese, which makes it irresistibly creamy and rich. Think of it as comfort food to the max!

This recipe gets its name because it tastes like a "million dollars" thanks to the rich flavors and textures. Despite its fancy name, Million Dollar Spaghetti is easy to make and budget-friendly, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.

Ingredients List for Million Dollar Spaghetti

To make this ultimate comfort food, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for a classic version of Million Dollar Spaghetti:

1. Spaghetti (16 oz) – Use your favorite brand, cooked to al dente.
2. Ground beef (1 lb) – Adds a rich, meaty flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
3. Marinara sauce (3 cups) – Use a high-quality jarred sauce or make your own for a more personalized flavor.
4. Cream cheese (8 oz) – Softened for easy mixing.
5. Cottage cheese (1 cup) – Adds a creamy texture and a bit of protein.
6. Sour cream (1 cup) – Enhances the richness and adds a slight tang.
7. Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups) – Provides that gooey, melty top layer.
8. Shredded Parmesan cheese (½ cup) – Adds a nutty, salty finish.
9. Butter (½ cup, sliced into pats) – Adds richness to the pasta layers.
10. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For extra depth of flavor.
11. Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds sweetness and texture to the sauce.
12. Olive oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
13. Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
14. Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish) – For a pop of color and flavor.

Ingredients List for Million Dollar Spaghetti (Vegetarian Version)

If you prefer a meatless option, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Spaghetti. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Spaghetti (16 oz) – Cook to al dente.
2. Marinara sauce (3 cups) – Store-bought or homemade.
3. Cream cheese (8 oz) – Softened for creaminess.
4. Cottage cheese (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and protein.
5. Sour cream (1 cup) – For tangy richness.
6. Shredded mozzarella (2 cups) – To melt on top.
7. Shredded Parmesan (½ cup) – For that delicious nutty flavor.
8. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – For a meaty texture without the meat.
9. Bell peppers (1 cup, diced) – For a pop of color and crunch.
10. Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds sweetness and texture.
11. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For added flavor.
12. Butter (½ cup, sliced into pats) – For richness.
13. Olive oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing the vegetables.
14. Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Million Dollar Spaghetti is highly customizable, allowing you to make swaps and variations based on your preferences. Here are some suggestions:

1. Meat Substitutions – You can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage. If you're vegetarian, skip the meat altogether and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture.
2. Cheese Alternatives – If you don't have cottage cheese on hand, you can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy effect. For a tangier flavor, consider swapping sour cream with Greek yogurt.
3. Pasta Alternatives – Traditional spaghetti works great, but feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.
4. Low-Fat Versions – To make the dish a bit lighter, use reduced-fat cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream. You can also opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner protein option.
5. Vegetable Add-ins – For a more nutritious meal, throw in veggies like spinach, zucchini, broccoli, or kale. These vegetables blend well with the creamy and cheesy layers while adding nutrients and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to create the ultimate Million Dollar Spaghetti, step by step:

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef (or mushrooms for a vegetarian version) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the creamy layer: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Layer the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the dish. Add half of the pats of butter on top. Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the rest of the butter pats.
5. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the meat sauce (or veggie sauce) evenly over the top layer of spaghetti. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, if desired.

How to Cook Million Dollar Spaghetti: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain.
2. Cook the Meat (or Veggies): Sauté onion and garlic, then add ground beef or mushrooms, cooking until browned.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in marinara and simmer the meat sauce.
4. Mix the Creamy Layer: Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese.
5. Assemble the Layers: Layer spaghetti, butter, cheese mixture, meat sauce, and cheeses.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake until bubbly and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not seasoning the pasta water: Always salt your pasta water for the best flavor.
2. Overcooking the pasta: The spaghetti should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Skipping the butter pats: The butter adds an extra richness that makes this dish so luxurious.
4. Not letting the dish rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the layers set.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty dish that looks great when served family-style. Here are a few presentation tips:

• Garnish with herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with sides: Pair this rich dish with a light green salad or garlic bread.
• Add a touch of elegance: Serve individual portions on white plates and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

Serve this dish with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It's rich enough to stand on its own, but a light side dish helps balance the indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Million Dollar Spaghetti

For a special occasion, consider baking and serving the spaghetti in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This adds a personal touch and makes for an elegant presentation.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe Tips

• Use room-temperature cream cheese: This makes it easier to blend with the other cheeses.
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Keep it slightly underdone to prevent it from getting mushy when baked.
• Let it sit before serving: This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're starting from cold.

Q: Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked casserole, then bake directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q: Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes! Ricotta can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother texture.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With its creamy, cheesy layers and hearty meat sauce, this casserole truly lives up to its name. Whether you're feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try and see why it’s called "Million Dollar" Spaghetti—you won’t be disappointed!

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