Introduction to Million Dollar Spaghetti
If you're on the hunt for a dish that’s as comforting as your favorite childhood meal but with a modern twist, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti. This delicious casserole combines layers of tender noodles, rich cheese, and a flavorful homemade meat sauce, creating a feast that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
Why is it called Million Dollar Spaghetti?
The whimsical name, Million Dollar Spaghetti, stems from its incredible taste and the joy it brings to those who enjoy it—it's not about the price tag, but rather the value of happiness it delivers. People rave about this crowd-pleaser, often requesting it for family gatherings or potlucks. Who wouldn't love a dish that can serve 15 hungry mouths for just around $8?
This recipe is a perfect blend of heartiness and comfort, making it a go-to for young professionals or anyone who loves to entertain. With its straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, embodying classic Italian flavors, this dish proves that you can create something extraordinary with just a few key components. So roll up those sleeves, grab your spatula, and let’s dive into the world of Million Dollar Spaghetti! For a complete guide, check out the full recipe here.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti
When you're ready to dive into making this savory Million Dollar Spaghetti, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that delicious, cheesy flavor everyone loves. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential ingredients for a delicious spaghetti casserole
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles: The staple base for your dish.
- ½ pound ground beef: Adds rich flavor.
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage: For that unmistakable taste.
- 1 small onion: Chopped, for depth.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, because everything is better with garlic!
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: A must-have for a saucy finish.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: To create that creamy layer.
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta: For added texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: The melty topping everyone craves.
- ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan: A finishing touch of flavor.
Optional ingredients for personalization
Feel free to make this dish your own! Consider adding vegetables (like spinach or bell peppers), different cheeses (like provolone), or spices (like crushed red pepper) for a unique twist. You can also substitute the meat with turkey or plant-based alternatives if you're looking for a healthier or vegetarian option!
By using these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
Preparing Million Dollar Spaghetti
If you’ve been searching for a cheesy, satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your friends or family, you’ve landed in the right place. Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delicious casserole with layers of spaghetti, homemade meat sauce, and tons of cheese! This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with ease.
Gather Your Equipment
Before diving into the deliciousness that awaits, ensure you have the following equipment ready and waiting:
- Meat Chopper: For crumbling your meat to perfection.
- Large Pot: Perfect for boiling that spaghetti.
- 14-Inch Skillet: Ideal for cooking your meat sauce.
- 9x13 Casserole Dish: The star of the show where all those layers will come together!
Having your gear together upfront will streamline the cooking process, allowing you to get right to the fun part—cooking!
Make the Meat Sauce
Start by heating up your skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pan. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper! As the meat cooks, use your meat chopper to crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Once browned, remove excess grease, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent. Next, there’s a crucial step—add all but ½ cup of your marinara sauce and mix it well. Set the meat sauce aside while you move on to the noodles!
Cook the Spaghetti Noodles
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add your spaghetti noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, but make sure they are just al dente. Drain the cooked spaghetti and return it to the pot. Add butter and the reserved marinara sauce, tossing everything together until well combined. Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly cooked pasta?
Prepare the Cheese Layer
Now it’s time for the creamy goodness! In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth. This layer adds the delightful richness that makes million dollar spaghetti truly special.
Assemble the Casserole
It’s time to bring everything together! Start with half of the noodles in your 9x13 casserole dish and spread them evenly on the bottom. Next, layer on your cheese mixture, followed by the remaining noodles. Pour that savory meat sauce over the top, smoothing it out to cover the noodles. Finish with a generous sprinkle of both mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Your masterpiece is almost ready!
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place your assembled casserole inside. Bake it for about 30 to 40 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it around the 20-minute mark; if the cheese starts browning too quickly, simply cover it with foil. After baking, allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing into it. This waiting period enhances the flavors and makes for easier serving!
With its layers of flavor and warmth, million dollar spaghetti is bound to be a hit at your next gathering. Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes linked throughout the article! Enjoy your creation, and happy cooking!
Variations on Million Dollar Spaghetti
Vegetarian Million Dollar Spaghetti
For a delicious twist on traditional Million Dollar Spaghetti, try going meatless! Simply omit the ground beef and Italian sausage, or substitute them with your favorite plant-based protein. Lentils, chopped mushrooms, or crumbled tofu can add excellent flavor and texture. Pair it with extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a nutrient boost. Your vegetarian friends will appreciate this hearty yet wholesome option, and it might even become a new family favorite.
Spice it up: Alternative Ingredients
Want to give your Million Dollar Spaghetti a spicy kick? Consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of the regular variety. You might also add red pepper flakes into the meat sauce for that extra warmth. Want a creamy twist? Try blending in a dollop of pesto or a splash of heavy cream with your cheese layer for a rich, herby flavor. Experiment with different cheese blends too! For a delightful twist, mix in some pepper jack for a bit of heat and flavor. Your pasta will never be the same!
For more tips on how to layer flavors effectively, check out this article on flavor building. Embrace your culinary creativity!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Make-Ahead Options
Million Dollar Spaghetti is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare it a day in advance by following the recipe through the assembly steps. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Alternatively, you can prep the sauce, noodles, and cheese layer 1-3 days ahead and assemble right before baking.
Freezing Tips for Later
Want to save a delicious meal for later? Pre-freeze your assembled casserole, carefully covered with greased aluminum foil. It will keep for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For the best results, bake covered for about 20 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes to achieve that perfect bubbly finish.
For more seamless cooking strategies, check out resources from reputable cooking sites like Bon Appétit or New York Times Cooking.
Serving suggestions for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Perfect pairings and sides
To make your Million Dollar Spaghetti even more delightful, consider serving it with some classic sides. Fresh garlic bread adds a perfect crunch and buttery texture, while a simple Caesar salad provides refreshing greens to balance the richness of the dish. If you're feeling a bit adventurous, try pairing it with roasted vegetables or a rich, creamy coleslaw for some extra crunch.
Creative serving ideas
Mix up your presentation by serving Million Dollar Spaghetti in individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch that impresses guests. You could also layer the casserole in a large, shallow serving dish, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for that “wow” factor. For a unique twist, top each serving with crushed red pepper flakes or even a sprinkle of pesto to enhance those Italian flavors.
Discover even more side ideas on sites like Serious Eats or Food Network to elevate your meal!
Time Breakdown for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up this delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti doesn’t take long! You’ll only need about 30 minutes to prep ingredients, chop veggies, and assemble the layers that make this dish so delightful.
Cooking Time
Once everything's prepped, the cooking phase takes approximately 30 minutes. This includes simmering the meat sauce and baking the casserole until it’s hot and bubbly.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour from start to finish to create this crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering!
If you’re curious about variations or need tips on storing leftovers, check out these resources for more ideas: How to Store Pasta and Easy Casserole Tips. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Calories Per Serving
One serving of Million Dollar Spaghetti contains approximately 350 calories. This dish balances comfort and nutrition, making it an appealing choice for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Key Nutrients
Packed with essential nutrients, each serving of this hearty casserole offers:
- Protein: 17g, supporting muscle repair and growth
- Fat: 19g, with saturated fat accounted for at 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g, providing energy for your day
- Calcium: 163mg, important for bone health
This wonderfully layered dish combines flavors and nutrition, ensuring you feel satisfied while enjoying a boost of energy. Want to dive into more nutritious recipes? Check out sources like Healthline for ideas on balancing meals.
FAQs about Million Dollar Spaghetti
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute regular spaghetti noodles with whole wheat pasta. It will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, enhancing the nutritional profile of your Million Dollar Spaghetti. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly according to the package instructions, as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to cook.
How do I ensure my casserole doesn't dry out?
To keep your Million Dollar Spaghetti moist, make sure you don’t overcook the pasta during the boiling stage. You want it to be al dente. Additionally, adding enough marinara sauce during assembly will help lock in moisture. If you are worried about it drying out while baking, you can cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover it for the remainder to allow the cheese to brown nicely.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If cream cheese isn't your thing, there are plenty of alternatives! You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you're looking for a vegan option. Cottage cheese can also work well and will keep the creamy texture intact in your Million Dollar Spaghetti. Just blend it until smooth before mixing it with the other cheese ingredients.
Don’t hesitate to experiment and find what suits your taste best! For more tips on please check out incredible food swaps here.
Conclusion on Million Dollar Spaghetti
In closing, Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. With its cheesy layers and hearty meat sauce, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t forget to check out the full recipe and enjoy!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Equipment
- Meat Chopper
- large pot
- 14 inch skillet
- 9X13 casserole dish
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 0.5 pound ground beef
- 0.5 pound ground Italian sausage or pork sausage
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
Cheese
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 0.25 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large skillet cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage and season with salt and pepper. Remove most of the grease. Add onions and garlic and cook until onion is translucent. Stir in all but ½ cup of the marinara sauce and set aside.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and mix with butter and ½ cup reserved marinara sauce in a large bowl.
- Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese in a bowl and mix well.
- Pour half of the pasta into a 9x13 inch pan. Smooth cheese layer on top. Add remaining noodles, and top with meat sauce and then mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Check at 20 minutes, and if cheese is browning too quickly, tent with foil. Let sit for 15 minutes before serving.
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