Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that combines the comforting flavors of spaghetti and meat sauce in a single, hearty dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this casserole is sure to impress with its layers of pasta, rich sauces, and generous amounts of cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked spaghetti. Top with the cheese mixture and spread evenly. Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
5. Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti layers and spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
6. Dot the top with butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Servings and Timing

Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a hearty meatless option.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends such as cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the meat sauce for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work well too.
2. Is it necessary to use cream cheese?
   Cream cheese adds creaminess, but you can substitute with additional cottage cheese or ricotta.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, it freezes well. Assemble it and freeze before baking for up to three months.
4. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   A side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with the casserole.
6. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
7. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
   You can use any jarred pasta sauce or homemade tomato sauce.
8. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven until warmed through.
9. Can I add vegetables?
   Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli can be added for extra nutrition.
10. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
    Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and comforting spaghetti make it a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy appetites and please taste buds alike.

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