This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is rich, comforting, and loaded with layers of cheesy goodness—classic spaghetti meets a creamy, indulgent twist that truly tastes like a million bucks. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, it’s hearty, satisfying, and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the meat sauce
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the creamy layer
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and ricotta (or cottage cheese) until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the casserole
Lightly grease a baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti on the bottom. Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Top with the remaining spaghetti.
4. Add sauce and cheese
Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
5. Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and enjoy
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
✨ Tip: For an extra-rich flavor, mix a little melted butter into the spaghetti before layering—it adds that true “million dollar” touch!
