Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty and cheesy delight that brings comfort and warmth to any family meal. With its layers of pasta, meat sauce, and rich cheeses, it is loved by both kids and adults. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weekdays!
how to make Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef and onion over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, then layer with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheeses on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
how to serve Million Dollar Spaghetti
Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti hot, straight out of the oven. It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad and garlic bread. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a fresh touch.
how to store Million Dollar Spaghetti
To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy when baked.
- Feel free to use turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage for a lighter option.
- Adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce can enhance flavor and nutrition.
- For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle more mozzarella on top before the final baking.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Spaghetti by using a meat substitute or just adding extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or eggplant in the sauce. This way, you can enjoy the flavors while keeping it plant-based!
FAQs
Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses, like cheddar or provolone.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for regular spaghetti. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef with chopped onion; drain fat. Add minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- While sauce simmers, cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente; drain well.
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by the entire cheese mixture, then the remaining spaghetti.
- Pour the meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti layers. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.