Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is a delightful, hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. This pasta casserole combines layers of spaghetti, savory ground beef, and creamy cheeses for a comforting meal that everyone will love. It’s not only easy to prepare but also makes excellent leftovers, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or potlucks. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a festive occasion, Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti stands out as a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Cheesy Goodness: Loaded with creamy cheeses, this casserole delivers rich flavors in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of pasta and meat, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for serving large groups or for meal prepping, this dish fits various occasions effortlessly.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when ready, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These kitchen essentials will help streamline your preparation and cooking.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Deep baking dish (9×13 or 10×14)
• Cooking spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking spaghetti evenly while providing enough space to stir without spilling.
• Skillet: Necessary for browning the meat and sautéing vegetables to enhance flavors in your casserole.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining cheese ingredients smoothly without any mess.
• Deep baking dish: Ensures all layers fit perfectly while allowing even baking throughout the casserole.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces spaghetti

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound chicken chicken chicken italian sausage
• 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 medium onion (diced) (or ½ cup)
• 2 24-ounce jars spaghetti sauce

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

For Assembly

• 8 tablespoons butter (cut in half; 4 tablespoons in each half)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly once assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and return it to the pot. Stir in 4 tablespoons of sliced butter into the hot spaghetti until melted.

Step 3: Combine Spaghetti with Sauce

Stir one jar of spaghetti sauce into the cooked noodles until well combined. Set aside while you prepare the meat sauce.

Step 4: Brown the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and chicken chicken chicken italian sausage along with diced onions. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain excess grease if necessary. Pour in the remaining jar of spaghetti sauce, stirring to combine before setting aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese until smooth. Set aside for layering.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole Layers

In a deep baking dish (9×13 or 10×14), place remaining butter slices at the bottom. Spread half of the spaghetti noodles evenly over buttered surface. Next, layer on the cheese mixture followed by remaining spaghetti noodles on top.

Step 7: Add Meat Sauce and Cheese Topping

Pour the meat sauce over the last layer of spaghetti. Finally, sprinkle with remaining 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese to create a delicious topping.

Step 8: Bake and Serve

Bake in preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Allow casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

Serving Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is all about presentation and pairing it with the right accompaniments. You want to create a meal that is not only delicious but also inviting for family and friends.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A colorful mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots dressed lightly with vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese for a classic touch.

With Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter and parsley, perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate your garlic bread by adding mozzarella cheese on top before baking until bubbly.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Mediterranean Roasted Veggies: Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant in olive oil and roast until tender.
• Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs provide a hearty side that complements the pasta well.

How to Perfect Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

To ensure your Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheeses enhance the flavor significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the spaghetti from becoming mushy during baking; slightly undercook it before mixing with sauce.
• Layer Ingredients Carefully: Proper layering ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the baked spaghetti to sit for 5-10 minutes helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

Pairing side dishes with your Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti can elevate your meal. Here are some great choices to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic flavor make a delightful addition.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella on skewers offer a refreshing bite.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious and vibrant contrast to the richness of the casserole.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil creates a zesty starter.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats (like turkey), cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables adds variety to your table.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances the comfort food experience beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Bold Cooking the Pasta Too Long: Overcooking spaghetti can make it mushy in the casserole. Aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite.
• Bold Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures: Using cold cream cheese can lead to clumps in your cheese mixture. Always soften cream cheese before mixing for a smooth texture.
• Bold Skipping the Butter Layer: Not adding butter at the bottom can cause the pasta to stick. This step ensures a deliciously moist base and easy serving.
• Bold Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can result in a messy serving. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to set up properly.
• Bold Overloading on Cheese: While cheese is essential, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balanced flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water or sauce if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti?

Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is a hearty pasta casserole filled with meat, cheese, and rich sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Can I customize Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms or substitute different meats according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?

Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to one day or freeze it for later use. Just bake when you’re ready!

What sides go well with Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, balancing its rich flavors.

How long does it take to cook Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti?

The total time from prep to bake is about 65 minutes, making it an efficient option for dinner.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is an appealing dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your family’s preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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