Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting and indulgent pasta dish that has gained popularity for its rich, creamy, and cheesy flavor profile. This delicious recipe combines classic pasta with a savory meat sauce, topped with layers of creamy cheese and baked to perfection. It’s a family favorite that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing a crowd-pleasing meal, Million Dollar Spaghetti offers a simple yet decadent solution. The dish stands out for its unique combination of flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying heartiness.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
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1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Cheese Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
For the Pasta:
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12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional, to toss the pasta and prevent sticking)
For Garnish (optional):
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Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
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Extra grated Parmesan
Substitutions:
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Ground beef can be substituted with ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
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For a gluten-free version, substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
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Non-dairy alternatives for sour cream and cream cheese can be used for a vegan variation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Meat Sauce:
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
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Pour in the marinara sauce, and stir in the basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder and onion powder.
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Cook the Pasta:
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Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Assemble the Million Dollar Spaghetti:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Then layer half of the cooked spaghetti on top.
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Spoon half of the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread evenly.
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Repeat the layers with the remaining meat sauce, spaghetti, and cheese mixture.
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Bake:
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Layering: Make sure to layer the creamy cheese mixture evenly to get that perfect meltiness throughout the dish.
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Be Mindful of Pasta: Cook your spaghetti al dente (slightly firm) as it will continue cooking in the oven.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor of this dish significantly.
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Avoid Overbaking: If the top starts to get too brown, cover it with foil and finish baking.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Version: Replace ground meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian twist.
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, and check the sauce ingredients for any gluten content.
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Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta for a low-carb version.
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Spicy Twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
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Pair it with a glass of red wine, like a smooth Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the rich flavors.
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For a fresh contrast, top the dish with some chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 450-500 kcal
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Protein: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 40g
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Fats: 25g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers and refrigerate the casserole overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. When ready to cook, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
3. Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Closing Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a perfect dish for both casual family dinners and special occasions. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and can be customized to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Don’t forget to share your results with family and friends, and feel free to ask questions if you need any tips along the way. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting creation!
