Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

This is a cozy and creamy Million Dollar Spaghetti that I made last week. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to share it on my blog, but my husband insisted, so here I am.

The taste of this Million Dollar Spaghetti was absolutely delicious, with the tangy marinara sauce mixed with savory ground beef and perfectly cooked spaghetti. When I added the cheese on top, the dish turned so creamy and even cozier.

I also used three types of cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan, plus cream cheese, making the dish so creamy and perfect for anyone who loves this kind of pasta dish.

What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a super yummy baked pasta dish with creamy cheese, tasty meat sauce, and soft spaghetti, all covered with melty, golden cheese on top. It’s called “million dollar” because it’s so rich and tasty, but it’s really easy to make. It’s perfect for family dinners.

Why You Should Try Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you love lasagna or baked ziti, you’ll adore Million Dollar Spaghetti! It combines all the best parts of a pasta casserole: gooey cheese, flavorful sauce, and pasta baked to perfection. Plus, it’s a great recipe for beginners or kids learning to cook, as it’s simple to follow and always turns out amazing.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Assembly:

• 2 tablespoons butter, sliced into small pieces

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti?

1. Prepare the Spaghetti

Boil the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes.

3. Mix the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Layer the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked spaghetti in an even layer, then spread the cheese filling on top. Add the remaining spaghetti, then pour the rest of the meat sauce over it.

5. Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Dot with small slices of butter for extra richness. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling spaghetti
• Skillet for cooking meat sauce
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Foil
• Spatula and spoon

Helpful Tips!

• Shortcut: Use pre-shredded cheese to save time.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Prep ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

What to Serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti,

I love to enjoy Million Dollar Spaghetti with Tuscan Garlic Bread, as the buttery, garlicky flavor goes so well with the cheesy pasta. A fresh Caesar Salad adds a crisp touch. Roasted Vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, bring balance to the meal. Also, a side of creamy mashed potatoes makes the dinner extra cozy. Finally, don’t forget a glass of sparkling lemonade or your favorite beverage to complete the meal.

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you like.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.

What’s the best way to freeze it?

Assemble the dish without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Of course! Homemade sauce adds a personal touch and extra flavor.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and loved by everyone. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and share the recipe with your friends! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one.