Million Dollar Spaghetti

This million dollar spaghetti recipe is a baked pasta casserole layered with creamy cheese filling, rich meat sauce, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, it combines spaghetti, ground beef, sausage, and a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta or cottage cheese for extra flavor. Easy to prepare ahead of time and freezer-friendly, this comforting dish is hearty, budget-friendly, and a crowd favorite for weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
• ½ pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground Italian sausage (or pork sausage)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef and sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess grease. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion softens. Stir in all but ½ cup of the marinara sauce (reserve for later). Set aside.
3. Cook the pasta: Prepare spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and place hot noodles in a large bowl. Toss with butter and the reserved ½ cup marinara sauce.
4. Mix the cheese layer: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage (or ricotta) cheese. Mix until smooth.
5. Assemble:
   • Spread half the spaghetti in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the noodles.
   • Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
   • Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and spread evenly.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, until hot and bubbly. If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
7. Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for at least 15 minutes before cutting to allow it to set. Serve warm.

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Tips

• Use al dente pasta so it holds up well during baking.
• Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Letting the dish rest after baking helps it hold its shape when serving.
• For a creamier cheese layer, blend the cream cheese mixture with a hand mixer.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap beef and sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• Cheese: Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese, or add extra mozzarella for a cheesier top.
• Pasta: Try penne, rigatoni, or ziti instead of spaghetti for a different texture.
• Sauce: Use your favorite homemade marinara or add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely. Prepare and assemble, then cover well and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15–20 extra minutes.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal.
• Add a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
• Serve with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Layers of pasta, creamy cheese, and savory meat sauce baked to perfection.
• Comfort food at its best—hearty, filling, and family-friendly.
• Easy to prepare ahead of time for busy weeknights or gatherings.
• A crowd-pleasing casserole that feels special without being complicated.