Introduction
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that mixes classic spaghetti with a creamy twist. It’s a comforting meal that will please both kids and adults alike. With layers of pasta, creamy cheeses, and savory ground beef, it’s no wonder this recipe is a family favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy and budget-friendly meal, Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a great choice. It makes a large batch, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week. Plus, it combines simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and has a great flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 1 jar of spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz of cream cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 pkg spaghetti (16 oz)
- Grated cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a pot of water and cook the spaghetti noodles until they are al dente, which means they are still a bit firm. Drain the noodles and set them aside to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the jar of spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir to combine, and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- While the beef mixture simmers, take a mixing bowl and combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until well blended.
- In a large baking dish, start layering your casserole. First, spread half of the cooked spaghetti across the bottom. Then, add half of the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
- Next, pour half of the meat sauce over the cheese layer. Repeat these layers with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
- Finally, melt the butter and pour it over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Serve this comforting casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For an added touch, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese or fresh herbs on top.
How to Store Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool to room temperature before storing. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cover it well to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the meat mixture.
- If you want to make it a vegetarian dish, you can replace the ground beef with cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make sure to mix the cream cheese thoroughly, so there are no lumps in your cheese mixture.
Variation (If Any)
You can customize this casserole by adding different cheeses or even incorporating vegetables. Some people like to use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture. You can also add some fresh spinach or bell peppers for a healthy twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day before and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just cover it well and keep it in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
3. What can I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
It goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
With this easy and delicious recipe, you can enjoy a comforting meal that the whole family will love!
