🍝 Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Family Favorite
When it comes to hearty, crowd-pleasing comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, cheesy layers of a Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. This dish takes the best of baked ziti, lasagna, and spaghetti, then transforms it into one irresistible casserole. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or any gathering where you need to feed hungry mouths with minimal effort. 🧀✨
🌟 Why This Recipe Is a Family Classic
- Layers of Flavor: Creamy cheese blends, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce.
- Kid-Approved: Gooey, cheesy, and comforting — kids love it.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for potlucks and large family dinners.
🥗 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Spaghetti sauce | 1 jar (24 oz) |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Sour cream | 1/4 cup |
| Cottage cheese or ricotta | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1 stick (1/2 cup) |
| Spaghetti noodles | 16 oz |
| Cheddar, Parmesan, or both | To taste (about 1 1/2 cups grated) |
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil spaghetti noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a skillet, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then stir in spaghetti sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese or ricotta until smooth.
4. Layer the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Spread half of the spaghetti noodles on the bottom.
- Dollop half of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Layer with half of the meat sauce.
- Repeat with the remaining noodles, cheese, and meat sauce.
- Top generously with shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or both.
5. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor. 🌿
👨🍳 Chef Expert Tips
- Ina Garten: “Use high-quality Parmesan for the top layer—it makes all the difference.”
- Gordon Ramsay: “Always season each layer lightly—don’t rely on the sauce alone.”
- Ree Drummond: “Double the recipe and freeze one casserole—perfect for busy weeknights.”
- Bobby Flay: “Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce for a little kick.”
🥦 Health Tips & Safety Considerations
- Use lean ground beef to reduce saturated fat.
- Swap half the pasta for zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
- Ricotta offers higher protein compared to cottage cheese.
- Always let hot casseroles rest before serving to prevent burns.
🍽️ Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Ingredient | Key Nutrients | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Protein, Iron | Supports muscle growth & energy |
| Spaghetti | Carbohydrates, Fiber | Provides energy & digestion support |
| Cottage/Ricotta cheese | Calcium, Protein | Strengthens bones & muscles |
| Parmesan cheese | Calcium, Vitamin A | Boosts bone health & immunity |
🌿 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crispy garlic bread.
- Serve alongside a classic Caesar salad.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables for balance.
❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely—wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
A blend of cheddar and Parmesan creates the richest flavor, but mozzarella works well too.
4. Can I substitute ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter version while still tasting great.
5. How do I prevent watery casserole?
Drain cooked pasta and meat thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
6. What side dishes pair best?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or sautéed green beans are great choices.
7. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes—replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or plant-based meat alternatives.
8. How long does it last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
9. Can I add extra veggies?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work wonderfully in the layers.
10. What wine pairs best?
A glass of Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness perfectly. 🍷
✨ Final Thoughts
Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, hearty, and endlessly comforting, it’s guaranteed to become a staple at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a million-dollar winner. 💰🍝
