Million-Dollar Spaghetti (Easy Casserole Recipe)

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Million-Dollar Spaghetti (Easy Casserole Recipe)

Few comfort foods capture the blend of hearty flavors and easy preparation quite like Million-Dollar Spaghetti. This beloved casserole bridges the gap between spaghetti and lasagna, creating a meal that suits busy weeknights, potlucks, or gatherings with friends. With layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and al dente noodles, this dish packs everything you crave in a single bite.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser or a make-ahead dinner to simply reheat, Million-Dollar Spaghetti delivers. Let’s explore this classic casserole—from ingredients and step-by-step assembly, to creative variations and storage tips.

What Is Million-Dollar Spaghetti?

Million-Dollar Spaghetti takes the familiar pasta casserole to new heights. It features a base of tender spaghetti, a rich beef and tomato sauce, creamy cheese layers, and a generous topping of shredded cheese. The result is a golden, bubbling casserole with savory flavors and satisfying textures.

This dish draws inspiration from lasagna but skips the laborious layering of pasta sheets. Instead, the creamy cheese blend layers in the center, ensuring each serving is hearty, cheesy, and satisfying. It makes a great main course year-round, especially when you want to feed a group with minimal stress.

Ingredients

Each component comes together to deliver balanced flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what goes into Million-Dollar Spaghetti:

• Spaghetti: Standard spaghetti noodles create the foundation. Whole-wheat or gluten-free varieties will also work.
• Ground beef: Lean ground beef adds savory depth. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles can substitute as needed.
• Onion: Use yellow or sweet onion for mellow flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Green onion: Offers a mild sharpness and fresh garnish.
• Spaghetti sauce: Jarred marinara or homemade tomato sauce both suit this recipe.
• Cream cheese: Delivers creaminess and a subtle tang.
• Sour cream: Adds richness and balances the tomato sauce’s acidity.
• Ricotta cheese: Combines with cream cheese and sour cream for a velvety middle layer.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Melts smoothly for a creamy topping.
• Cheddar cheese: Provides sharpness. Mozzarella or provolone are alternatives.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs (like oregano or basil) round out the dish.

Ingredient Quantities (Serves 8)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Million-Dollar Spaghetti

1. Prep the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Undercooking slightly helps the pasta hold up in the oven.

2. Cook the Beef Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, crumbling the meat until browned and the onion softens. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.

Drain any fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, followed by salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Make the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta cheese. Mix until smooth. Fold in most of the green onion, reserving a small handful for garnish.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Grease an 11×7-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti across the bottom. Spread the full cheese mixture over the noodles, then top with the remaining spaghetti.

Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer of noodles. Sprinkle both shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese across the surface.

5. Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and turns golden at the edges.

6. Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Scatter the reserved green onion over the top. Serve hot, pairing with a crisp salad or garlic bread if desired.

Tips for the Best Million-Dollar Spaghetti

• Use full-fat cheese and sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Don’t overcook your pasta—al dente noodles won’t turn mushy after baking.
• If your sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of pasta water before layering.
• For extra flavor, mix a handful of fresh basil or parsley into the cheese layer.
• Allow the casserole to rest after baking; this makes serving neater.

Recipe Variations

Personalize this casserole with your favorite flavors or pantry staples:

Alternative Proteins

• Substitute Italian sausage for ground beef to add spice.
• Go vegetarian by replacing meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.

More Veggies

• Add diced bell pepper or zucchini to the sauce for a nutrition boost.
• Wilt in a few handfuls of spinach during the last minutes of simmering.

Cheese Swaps

• Swap Monterey Jack for mozzarella or gouda.
• Mix in a few tablespoons of parmesan or pecorino for sharpness.

Gluten-Free Option

• Use gluten-free spaghetti.
• Select gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers for a crispy topping.

Spicy Kick

• Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Drizzle hot sauce over portions before serving.

Crunchy Topping

• Top with a layer of seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed butter crackers before baking.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

Million-Dollar Spaghetti is a lifesaver for planners. Here’s how to store and reuse leftovers or prep ahead:

Making Ahead

• Assemble the casserole fully, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time if cold from the fridge.

Storing Leftovers

• Cool the casserole to room temperature.
• Store portions in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a foil-covered dish at 325°F until heated through.

Freezing

• Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake.
• Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated throughout.

Serving Suggestions

Million-Dollar Spaghetti is hearty on its own but shines next to a few classic sides:

• Garlic bread or homemade breadsticks
• Green salads with vinaigrette or Caesar dressing
• Roasted broccoli, green beans, or mixed vegetables

Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my casserole watery?
If the sauce is thin, reduce it further before layering. Also, drain pasta thoroughly after boiling.

How do I avoid rubbery cheese?
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor.

Can I make this recipe for a crowd?
Double the ingredients and use a large baking dish or two casseroles.

Can I omit certain cheeses?
Yes, but keep some form of creamy cheese in the center to maintain texture.

Million-Dollar Spaghetti balances simplicity with great taste. It’s a versatile casserole ready for any night—whether you’re after quick comfort or a prep-ahead feast the entire table will love. Dive into the layers, enjoy the cheesy goodness, and don’t be surprised if there are no leftovers.