Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve landed in the right spot! This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any family gathering. Imagine diving into layers of spaghetti with creamy cheese filling and savory marinara sauce—pure bliss!

What makes this dish even more special is how it brings everyone together around the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this baked spaghetti is as delightful as it is satisfying. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this dish. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve, making meal planning a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Perfect Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, ensuring that every bite tastes just as good the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Million Dollar Spaghetti! These items are easy to find at your local grocery store and will create a deliciously satisfying meal.

• 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
• 1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block Philly) (softened)
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or mix in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique twist on classic flavors.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Stir until smooth. This cheesy layer adds richness and creaminess that balances out the tangy marinara sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add your spaghetti and cook it just two minutes less than what the package suggests. Drain it but return it to the pot; this keeps everything warm while you finish preparing the other ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage along with chopped onion. Break apart the meat as it cooks until browned—about ten minutes. This step brings out those delicious flavors that make your sauce robust.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Stir in minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes into the skillet with sausage. Cooking these together for about a minute lets those aromatic flavors meld beautifully—trust me; your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the skillet mixture directly into your pot with pasta. Pour in both jars of marinara sauce and toss everything together until well coated. Using tongs makes this part easier; plus, it’s fun!

Step 7: Layer It Up

Spread half of your pasta/sauce mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Then pour that luscious cheese mixture over it gently—don’t worry if it’s not perfect! Finally, add the remaining pasta/sauce mixture on top.

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over everything. This creates that gooey layer we all love when baked!

Step 9: Bake It!

Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about thirty minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 10: Cool Down Before Serving

Let your Million Dollar Spaghetti sit for about five to ten minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely so you can cut perfect portions.

There you have it! A warm pan of comfort food ready to share with family or enjoy as leftovers throughout the week. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Million Dollar Spaghetti

Making Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it turns out just right!

• Use high-quality marinara sauce: A good marinara can elevate your dish significantly. Look for brands that use fresh ingredients without added preservatives for the best flavor.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese: The cheese layer is what makes this dish truly million dollar. Using full-fat cream cheese and high-quality mozzarella will give you the best texture and taste.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it firm up a bit. This makes serving easier and allows the flavors to meld even further.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. If you’re serving kids or those sensitive to spice, you can omit them altogether for a milder dish.
• Make it ahead of time: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It also freezes well, so don’t hesitate to make extra!

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

Presenting Million Dollar Spaghetti beautifully can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Chopped or whole, basil adds a vibrant touch and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Parmesan cheese shavings: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving adds a delightful finishing touch and enhances the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs perfectly with any pasta dish. Its crunchy exterior and soft interior are perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
• Caesar Salad (without anchovies): Crisp romaine lettuce dressed with a creamy dressing, croutons, and shaved cheese brings a refreshing balance to the rich spaghetti.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds a healthy green vegetable option that complements the heartiness of the spaghetti while providing a nice color contrast on the plate.

With these ideas in mind, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To prevent drying out, cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, prepare the recipe as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing in the freezer.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Million Dollar Spaghetti.

Can I use other types of sausage in Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage or any plant-based alternative for a healthier option without compromising flavor.

How do I make Million Dollar Spaghetti vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute. The flavors will still shine through!

Can I prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for best results.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti kid-friendly?

Definitely! This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is usually loved by kids due to its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this delightful Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll love savoring each bite. Happy cooking!