Description

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort bake—a creamy, cheesy, meaty pasta dish that layers rich flavors in one pan. With a creamy cheese filling nestled between spaghetti and hearty meat sauce, all topped with golden, melted cheese, this is a family favorite that freezes well and delivers every time.

Ingredients

450g (1 lb) spaghetti, cooked al dente

225g (1/2 lb) ground beef

225g (1/2 lb) Italian sausage

680g (24 oz) marinara sauce

225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

225g (8 oz) cottage cheese or ricotta

120g (1/2 cup) sour cream

30g (2 tbsp) butter

225g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese

60g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and toss with butter to prevent sticking.

3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.

4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer the meat sauce for 10 minutes.

5. In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, cottage cheese (or ricotta), and sour cream until smooth.

6. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half of the spaghetti on the bottom.

7. Spread the entire creamy cheese mixture over the pasta.

8. Top with the remaining spaghetti.

9. Pour the meat sauce over the top and spread evenly.

10. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the surface.

11. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

12. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.

13. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let the casserole rest after baking to help the layers set for cleaner slices.

Blend the cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother, ricotta-like texture.

For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper or use hot Italian sausage.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Italian fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of dish)
Calories: 590
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg