Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious and indulgent Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole recipe. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the comforting flavors of spaghetti, cheese, and a hearty meat sauce, then you’re in the right place. This recipe takes the classic spaghetti casserole to a whole new level by adding layers of creamy cheese and a rich meat sauce. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends, and it’s guaranteed to impress everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

For this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of spaghetti

– 1 pound of ground beef

– 1 onion, diced

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 can (24 ounces) of spaghetti sauce

– 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes

– 1 teaspoon of dried basil

– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon of salt

– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

– 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened

– 1/2 cup of sour cream

– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

Follow these steps to create your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the spaghetti

Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the meat sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.

Add the spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until well combined.

Spoon half of the cooked spaghetti into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti evenly. Top with half of the meat sauce.

Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the meat sauce, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the casserole.

Step 4: Bake and serve

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Variations

Feel free to customize your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole with these variations:

– Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

– Add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and texture.

– Mix in a handful of spinach or kale to sneak in some greens.

– Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or provolone.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfectly:

– Be sure to fully cook the spaghetti before assembling the casserole, as it will not cook further in the oven.

– Drain the cooked spaghetti well to remove excess water, as this will prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

– Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to make it easier to slice and serve.

– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it – a mouthwatering Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of spaghetti, cheese, and a flavorful meat sauce, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving some comfort food, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly indulgent and delicious meal.

FAQs

Can I freeze the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Simply assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions as usual.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this casserole, you can experiment with different pasta shapes such as penne or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply assemble the casserole as instructed, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions as usual.

What can I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a more substantial meal. It pairs well with a variety of vegetables and makes for a satisfying and comforting dinner.