Storage Options
Million Dollar Spaghetti stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when covered tightly. Individual portions reheat well in the microwave, while larger portions can be reheated in a 350-degree oven until heated through. The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Summary
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a luxurious layered casserole that combines tender pasta with a rich cream cheese mixture and hearty meat sauce. This make-ahead friendly dish serves a crowd and delivers restaurant-quality flavors with simple preparation techniques that any home cook can master.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience that feels both comforting and special. The multiple cheese layers create incredible richness, while the make-ahead convenience makes entertaining effortless. The generous portion size feeds a large group economically, and the impressive presentation makes it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or special occasions when you want to serve something memorable.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
You’ll need a large pot for cooking pasta, a large skillet for the meat sauce, and a 9×13 inch baking dish for assembly. A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the cheese mixture, along with measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. A colander for draining pasta, wooden spoon for stirring, and aluminum foil for covering during baking complete the equipment list.
Tips for Success
Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened for smooth mixing. Don’t skip the butter layer on the pasta as it prevents sticking and adds richness. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving. The cheese mixture should be well combined and smooth before layering.
Ingredients
1 pound spaghetti pasta 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 pound ground beef 1 pound Italian sausage 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1 cup sour cream 1 cup cottage cheese 1/2 cup chopped green onions 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and toss with melted butter. Spread the buttered pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix until smooth and well blended. Spread this cheese mixture evenly over the pasta layer in the baking dish. Pour the meat sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover completely. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving to allow the layers to set properly.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try using half ground beef and half ground turkey for a lighter version. Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra vegetables. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce calories. For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the cheese mixture. Consider using different pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for variety. The recipe can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking.