Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a recipe that will wow your family and friends, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti. This indulgent, cheesy, and hearty dish combines the best elements of lasagna and baked spaghetti into one show-stopping meal. With layers of pasta, creamy cheese, savory marinara sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping, Million Dollar Spaghetti is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress.

This dish is as comforting as it gets—think of it as a cross between lasagna and spaghetti but with all the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave. Whether you’re feeding a large group or just indulging in a cozy dinner, Million Dollar Spaghetti is a must-try.

Why Million Dollar Spaghetti is the Perfect Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti is an excellent choice for anyone who loves pasta and rich, cheesy dishes. It’s perfect for:

• Families: Easy to make, this recipe will feed a crowd, and everyone will be happy with the cheesy layers and savory flavors.
• Beginners in the Kitchen: If you’re new to cooking or want a simple, one-dish meal, this recipe requires minimal effort and only a few ingredients.
• Meal Prep Enthusiasts: It’s a great make-ahead meal that can be baked when you’re ready to eat or even frozen for later use.
• Cheese Lovers: If you’re a fan of creamy cheese, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your craving.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent pasta dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a comforting meal at home. This recipe combines the best parts of lasagna and baked spaghetti, offering layers of flavor that everyone will love. Here’s how to make this delicious dish step-by-step.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti

To start, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti (you can use regular or gluten-free pasta)
• 1 pound ground beef (or sausage for a different flavor)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional for added flavor)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these kitchen tools:

• Large pot for boiling the pasta
• 9×13-inch baking dish to assemble and bake the spaghetti
• Large skillet for cooking the ground beef (or sausage)
• Colander for draining pasta
• Mixing bowls for preparing the cheese mixture
• Measuring spoons and cups for accurate ingredient amounts
• Aluminum foil for covering the dish during baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Brown the Meat

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and stir in your marinara sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.

Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter. Start assembling the dish by layering half of the cooked spaghetti on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta. Then, spoon and spread half of the creamy cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese mixture.

Top with Cheese

Once all the layers are assembled, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dish. This will give you that golden, bubbly cheese topping when baked.

Bake the Spaghetti

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This will help the layers set, making it easier to serve. Slice into squares and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti

• Add veggies: If you like, you can sneak in some vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and bake it the next day.
• Swap the meat: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Use homemade marinara sauce: If you have time, making your own marinara sauce will give the dish even more depth of flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish also reheats well, so don’t worry about losing that cheesy, creamy goodness! To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or reheat in the oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze leftovers in individual servings, making it easy to enjoy Million Dollar Spaghetti even on busy nights.

Food and Drink Pairings for Million Dollar Spaghetti

• Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread is the perfect side to this cheesy dish.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with a tangy dressing complements the rich flavors of the spaghetti.
• Wine Pairing: A bold red wine like a Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with this hearty meal.

Variations and Swaps

• Swap meats: If you prefer ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options, you can easily swap them in place of beef or sausage.
• Change the cheeses: Try adding other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta if needed to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a simple and straightforward dish, but like any recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. To ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time, here are some mistakes to watch out for and tips to avoid them.

1. Not Cooking the Pasta Al Dente

Mistake: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushy spaghetti once it’s baked.

Tip: Always cook the pasta al dente (firm to the bite). The spaghetti will continue to cook when it’s baked, so it’s important not to overcook it. Follow the package directions, and remember that the pasta will soften further during baking.

2. Skipping the Draining Step

Mistake: Not draining the pasta properly can result in excess water that makes the dish too watery.

Tip: After boiling the spaghetti, make sure to drain it well in a colander. You don’t want any extra moisture seeping into your layers, as it can affect the texture of the dish.

3. Overcooking the Meat

Mistake: Overcooking the ground beef or sausage can lead to dry and tough meat.

Tip: Brown the meat just until it’s fully cooked and crumbly, but don’t cook it for too long. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat and mix it with the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for just a few minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Not Using Enough Seasoning

Mistake: Under-seasoning the pasta, meat sauce, or cheese mixture can make the dish bland.

Tip: Be sure to season each layer well, including the meat sauce and the creamy cheese mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning as needed. A well-seasoned dish will bring out all the rich, cheesy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Spaghetti

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Million Dollar Spaghetti is great for meal prep. You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve it.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked, assembled dish for up to 3 months. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the recipe instructions.

How do I store leftovers of Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or bake the entire dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute the ground meat with a plant-based protein, like crumbled tofu or lentils, or even add extra vegetables to the meat sauce. You can also use a vegetable-based marinara sauce to make the dish fully vegetarian.

What can I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Million Dollar Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Some great options include:

• Garlic bread for a crunchy, buttery contrast to the creamy spaghetti.
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement the pasta and add a healthy touch.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta! While spaghetti is traditional, you could use penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions before assembling the dish.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti spicy?

No, this dish isn’t spicy unless you choose to add spicy ingredients. If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or sprinkle some chili powder into the cheese mixture to spice it up.

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