Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Dish

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (according to package directions).
2. Drain spaghetti and return to pot. Toss with butter until melted and coated. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, brown ground beef, sausage, and onion over medium heat. Break up meat with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
2. Add garlic, marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and basil. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. Combine ricotta, cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan in a bowl. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread half the spaghetti in the baking dish.
2. Spread cheese mixture over spaghetti.
3. Layer with remaining spaghetti.
4. Pour meat sauce over spaghetti.
5. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for 15-20 minutes more, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
3. Cool 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Cheese Mixture: The combination of cheeses creates a rich texture. Feel free to substitute with your favorites!
• Italian Sausage: Adds extra flavor, but all ground beef works too.
• Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance. Refrigerate and bake, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute meat with sautéed vegetables (mushrooms, peppers, zucchini).
• Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• Low-Carb: Use spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
• Extra Cheesy: Add an extra cheese layer between spaghetti and meat sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked casserole (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I Use Different Pasta?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or ziti work well. Cook al dente.

What Should I Serve with It?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great sides.

Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! It’s a delicious and comforting meal for any occasion.