Million Dollar Spaghetti

This Million Dollar Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked pasta dish that turns everyday spaghetti into a rich, indulgent meal. Layers of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and a luscious cheese blend make it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Pasta & Meat

• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
• ½ pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground Italian sausage or pork sausage
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce & Cheese

• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 3 Tbsp 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess grease if necessary. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in all but ½ cup of the marinara sauce (reserve ½ cup for later). Set aside.
3. Cook the Spaghetti:
   Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, then return to a large mixing bowl. Add butter and the reserved ½ cup marinara sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Prepare the Cheese Layer:
   In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage or ricotta cheese. Mix until smooth.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   • Spread half of the spaghetti in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Layer the cheese mixture on top of the noodles.
   • Add the remaining spaghetti over the cheese layer.
   • Pour the meat sauce over the top and smooth evenly.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 30–40 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Check around 20 minutes; if the cheese is browning too quickly, tent with foil.
7. Rest and Serve:
   Allow the casserole to rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting to let it set. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy layers that melt in your mouth.
• Savory meat sauce combines beef and sausage for deep flavor.
• Comfort food made easy: perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
• Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.

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Tips

• Use room-temperature cream cheese to make mixing easier.
• Avoid overcooking spaghetti; it will bake further in the oven.
• Tent with foil during baking if cheese is browning too fast.
• Let it rest before slicing to prevent messy servings.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap ground beef and sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use part-skim ricotta to reduce fat content.
• Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms between layers for extra veggies.
• Substitute mozzarella with provolone or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble in the baking dish and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Absolutely! Freeze before baking in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of cream cheese mixture?
You can, but the classic cream cheese layer gives it the signature “million-dollar” richness.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
• Pair with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Chianti, for a cozy dinner.
• Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings — it feeds a crowd and is sure to impress.