Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a deliciously cheesy, hearty dish that combines layers of creamy cheese, pasta, savory meat sauce, and a golden, melted cheese topping. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even make-ahead meals, offering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. The layers of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream add a creamy richness that elevates this dish from basic to exceptional.
This baked casserole is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. The ingredients come together seamlessly, creating a layered meal that’s satisfying and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Layers of Flavor: The combination of pasta, creamy cheese layers, and hearty meat sauce makes every bite flavorful and filling.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for a family meal.
• Simple and Easy: With a few steps, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table without much fuss.
Ingredients:
• 1 (8-ounce) package spaghetti
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (16-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
• 1/2 cup butter, sliced and divided
• 1 (8-ounce) container cottage cheese
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 (8-ounce) package shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
• In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
• Add the spaghetti sauce to the browned beef, stir to combine, and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the First Layer
• Place half of the butter slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the butter slices.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Mixture
• In a mixing bowl, blend together the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Add the Cheese Layer
• Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer in the casserole dish.
Step 7: Add the Remaining Spaghetti and Butter
• Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer. Arrange the remaining butter slices over the spaghetti.
Step 8: Top with Meat Sauce
• Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the spaghetti and spread it out evenly.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
• Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 10: Add the Cheddar Cheese Topping
• Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
• Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 11: Serve
• Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Scoop and serve while hot for a deliciously creamy, cheesy experience.
Tips:
• Extra Creaminess: If you like a creamier dish, add an additional 1/4 cup of sour cream to the cheese mixture.
• Meat Options: Try substituting ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
• Herb Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Freezer: To freeze, prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its rich, creamy layers and hearty meat sauce make it a standout dish that’s easy to love and even easier to make! Enjoy!
