Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy baked pasta dish that tastes like a million bucks—but is simple and budget-friendly to make. With layers of spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and a creamy cheese center, this comforting casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish takes everything you love about spaghetti and transforms it into a baked, lasagna-style casserole—without the fuss. It’s creamy, meaty, cheesy, and satisfying all in one bite. The layers of pasta, seasoned beef, tangy marinara, and melty cheese offer a variety of textures and flavors that feel indulgent and homey. Plus, it reheats beautifully and is easy to make ahead.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente and slightly cooled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
1 pound lean ground beef, cooked
16 ounces marinara sauce
1/2 cup sour cream
6 ounces cream cheese, cubed
3 cups mozzarella cheese, grated and divided

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, toss the cooked and slightly cooled spaghetti with olive oil, minced garlic, beaten eggs, and Italian herbs until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked ground beef with marinara sauce.

4. In an 11×7-inch baking dish, layer half of the seasoned spaghetti mixture.

5. Spread the sour cream evenly over the noodles.

6. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the sour cream layer.

7. Dot the top with cubed cream cheese and sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese.

8. Layer the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the rest of the meat sauce.

9. Finish with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese.

10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

11. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 485 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils as a hearty substitute.

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara for a bit of heat.

• Add Veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, roasted bell peppers, or grated carrots to the meat sauce.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

• Different Cheeses: Substitute ricotta for cream cheese or try a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone and Parmesan.

• Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. Wrap the assembled (unbaked or baked) casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine, angel hair, or even penne can work well.

Is this dish very creamy?

Yes, the sour cream and cream cheese create a rich, creamy center without overpowering the dish.

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Yes, use your favorite brand. Choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.

How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?

Cook the spaghetti just until al dente and avoid overmixing with the sauce before baking.

Can I omit the eggs?

The eggs help bind the noodles together. You can omit them, but the texture may be a bit looser.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely. It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—great for picky eaters.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute with your favorite non-dairy sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese alternatives.

How do I serve this?

Let it rest for a few minutes after baking, then slice and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With creamy layers, savory meat sauce, and bubbling cheese, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead, this family-favorite casserole never disappoints.

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