Description

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and creamy baked pasta dish featuring layers of spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and a luscious creamy cheese mixture, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this casserole combines rich flavors and textures into one satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
Water (for boiling)
Salt (for pasta water)

Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
24 oz marinara or meatless pasta sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Creamy Layer

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup cottage cheese
½ cup sour cream

Cheese Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

Chopped parsley or basil

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Prepare the creamy layer: In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream until smooth and fully combined.
Assemble the casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the dish. Spoon half of the creamy mixture over the pasta. Add half of the meat sauce. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti, creamy mixture, and meat sauce.
Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
Rest & serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti; al dente texture helps prevent mushiness in the casserole.
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a different variation.
Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a richer texture and taste.
Leftovers keep well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.

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

Keywords: Spaghetti Casserole, Baked Pasta, Creamy Spaghetti, Meat Sauce Casserole, Family Dinner