Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

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If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. This decadent, layered pasta bake combines the richness of meat sauce, the creaminess of a cheese blend, and the satisfying bite of perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a dish that looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. The melding of flavors as it bakes in the oven creates a warm, cheesy, and savory experience in every bite—living up to its “million dollar” name.

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Ingredients for this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy cleanup and serving later.

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Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain the pasta and toss with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

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Step 3: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once browned, drain excess grease and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer on low for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

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Step 4: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Blend until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the rich, creamy layer that sets this casserole apart.

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Step 5: Assemble the Layers

In your prepared baking dish, begin layering:

1. Half of the cooked spaghetti on the bottom.
2. Spread the entire cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
3. Layer the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer.
4. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the second layer of spaghetti.
5. Top with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

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Step 6: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

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Storage Instructions

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole stores beautifully, making it a convenient choice for meal prep or leftovers. Once fully cooled, cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole (either whole or in portions) for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~530 kcal
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on brands used and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ricotta for cottage cheese?

Yes, ricotta cheese is a great substitute if you prefer a smoother texture and a slightly richer flavor.

What kind of pasta can I use instead of spaghetti?

You can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a fun variation in texture.

Is it okay to prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes. Simply omit the meat and use a plant-based meat substitute or load up on sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.

#What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully with this hearty casserole.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Keep the casserole covered with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking. Uncover only at the end to melt and slightly brown the cheese.

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken adds a different but equally delicious protein element.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave individual servings or place in the oven at 325°F covered with foil until warmed through.

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