Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – Experience the indulgence of our exquisite Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, an Italian creation that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. This delectable dish combines cooked spaghetti noodles, seasoned ground beef (or Italian sausage), and a luxurious blend of cream cheese and cottage cheese all crowned with your spaghetti sauce. The outcome? A casserole is decadent and fulfilling it’s like winning the lottery! Get ready to relish in the lap of luxury with this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole that’s ideal, for any occasion.
From the moment I laid eyes on this recipe for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole I knew I had discovered something special. Eager to impress my husband and child with a thrilling dish I decided to give it a go. As I carefully cooked the noodles to perfection and witnessed the cheese mixture melt into perfection my excitement grew. Little did I realize that this dish would instantly become a cherished favorite among my family. With each bite, their faces lit up with joy and their contented smiles warmed my heart. Since that day this casserole has held a place in our family’s journey by bringing us together through its irresistible flavors and comforting aroma.
What makes this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole truly irresistible?
Experience the exquisite Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, a delicacy that boasts irresistible qualities! What sets this casserole apart is its creaminess, achieved by combining cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese. The result is a velvety and luxurious texture that’s simply divine. Packed with tender spaghetti, seasoned ground beef (or Italian sausage), and your preferred spaghetti sauce this dish offers a satisfying meal that will leave you satisfied. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare offering a gourmet quality experience without any hassle. Treat yourself to this beloved family favorite. Let its irresistible flavors and comforting aroma make an impression that’s truly priceless, in the world of culinary delights.
What You Need To Make This Million-Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
Spaghetti Noodles: You have a couple of options when it comes to spaghetti noodles. You can go for regular spaghetti noodles or whole wheat spaghetti ones. Opt for whole wheat spaghetti if you want to make it a bit healthier. Make sure to cook the noodles until they are al dente since they will continue cooking in the oven.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: For the meat you can use ground beef or even a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage. This will give your casserole mouthwatering flavors. If you’re into spicier dishes consider using Italian sausage instead.
Spaghetti Sauce: When it comes to the spaghetti sauce this recipe is quite versatile. You can choose any flavor that tickles your taste buds. Marinara, roasted garlic, mushroom, or any other tempting variety. If you have a family recipe for a sauce that holds a special place in your heart feel free to use that too.
Sour Cream: To add creaminess and a tangy note to balance out the sour cream is a great addition. However, if you prefer something lighter, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
Cream Cheese and Cottage Cheese (or Ricotta): To create that cheesy layer that blends perfectly with all the ingredients combine cream cheese with either cottage cheese or ricotta. If you enjoy a cheese flavor in your casserole opt for full-fat versions of both cheeses.
Butter: Finally don’t forget about butter! It adds a touch of indulgence, to each layer of this dish. If you want to have control, over the saltiness you can choose unsalted butter. However using a small amount of salted butter adds richness, to the casserole that enhances its flavors.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: For the best outcome go for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Its nutty taste and smooth texture elevate this dish to another level. If you’re a cheese lover don’t hesitate to sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top.
Steps To Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Cook the spaghetti noodles until they are al dente following the instructions on the package. Drain them. Set them aside.
Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) until it is completely browned. Once done remove any fat. Set the meat aside.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl combine the cream, softened cream cheese, and cottage cheese (or ricotta) until you achieve a creamy texture.
Step 5: Mix the cooked spaghetti sauce with the meat to ensure that every bite is coated in deliciousness.
Step 6: Generously butter the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan with pats of butter.
Step 7: Layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles on top of the buttered base.
Step 8: Evenly spread the mixture of cream cheese over this layer of spaghetti noodles.
Step 9: Add another layer of remaining spaghetti noodles on top creating a mouthwatering pasta sandwich.
Step 10: Place a few pats of butter on this layer of spaghetti to add even more richness to it.
Step 11: Now evenly distribute spoonfuls of meat sauce mixture on top of these layers of spaghetti.
Step 12: Put the casserole in the oven that has been preheated and let it bake for 30 minutes so that all the flavors can blend together beautifully.
Step 13: Once done take out the casserole from the oven. Generously sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top as much as you desire.
Step 14: Put the casserole back in the oven for another 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and create a crust.
Step 15: When you take out the casserole from the oven its wonderful scent will instantly invite everyone to gather and enjoy a meal together.
Tip:
To enhance the taste and add a bit of sophistication you might want to think about including a sprinkling of mozzarella cheese, in between the cream cheese mixture and the uppermost layer of spaghetti noodles. This extra touch will bring about a cheesy surprise when you indulge in this casserole making it all the more irresistible and fulfilling. Savor the melted gooey goodness that will take your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole to levels of deliciousness!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole in advance?
Definitely! This casserole is great, for meal prep or for special occasions when you want to plan ahead. Just layer everything cover the dish and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly since the ingredients will be chilled.
Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly in this casserole feel free to get creative and try pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine for a twist. The creamy cheese and savory sauce will complement any type of pasta wonderfully!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes you can definitely freeze any leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! Simply store it in an airtight container. Wrap it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in the oven until heated through.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 package of spaghetti noodles cooked according to package directions
- 1 pound of ground beef or ground Italian sausage or a combination of both
- 1 jar of spaghetti sauce your choice of flavor
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 8 ounces of cream cheese softened
- 1 cup of cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1/2 cup of butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by cooking the spaghetti noodles as, per the instructions on the package until they're firm to the bite. Once cooked drain them. Set them aside.
- Next in a skillet cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) over medium heat until it is fully browned. Remove any fat. Set the meat aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl combine the cream, cream cheese and cottage cheese (or ricotta) until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Take a 9x13 inch baking pan. Place small pieces of butter at the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles on top of the butter.
- Evenly spread the cheese mixture over this layer of spaghetti noodles.
- Add another layer of remaining spaghetti noodles on top of the cheese mixture.
- Place a few pieces of butter on this top layer of spaghetti noodles.
- Spoon over it the meat and spaghetti sauce mixture evenly.
- Bake this casserole in your preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Once 30 minutes have passed, sprinkle your desired amount of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 10 minutes or so until you see that the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
- Remove from your oven. Let it cool off before serving.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
