Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a decadent, layered dish that combines pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and a buttery topping for a crowd-pleasing dinner. This casserole is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight meals when you want to serve something truly indulgent. With its irresistible layers and gooey texture, it’s sure to earn a spot on your dinner rotation!

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese or cream cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)

Directions

Prepare the Pasta and Sauce:

1. Cook Pasta: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole:

3. Prepare Creamy Layer: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Layer the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti on the bottom. Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers.

Add the Topping:

5. Top and Bake: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the casserole. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top. Finish with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

6. Rest and Slice: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
• Substitutions: Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Extra Add-Ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for more flavor and nutrients.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole lives up to its name with its rich, creamy layers and hearty flavors. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers!