Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, indulgent twist on traditional spaghetti, combining layers of pasta, meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and gooey melted cheese on top. It’s called “million dollar” because it tastes like a million bucks! Here’s how to make this crowd-pleasing dish:

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Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or 3 cups homemade marinara)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for extra texture)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti noodles
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the spaghetti:
   • Boil the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the meat sauce:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the cheese filling:
   • In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole:
   • Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Spread the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer.
   • Top with the remaining spaghetti.
   • Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer of spaghetti.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (and cheddar, if using) over the meat sauce.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

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Tips:

• Add a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a guaranteed hit for family dinners or potlucks! 🍝🧀✨