Description
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Million-Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is it! A rich, cheesy, and creamy baked pasta dish that combines spaghetti, a hearty meat sauce, and layers of melty cheese for an irresistible dinner. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy nights!
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Spaghetti (12 oz) – The base of the casserole
- Salt (1 tsp) – For boiling the pasta
For the Creamy Layer
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Makes it extra creamy
- Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Adds richness
- Sour Cream (½ cup) – Enhances the creamy texture
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated) – For extra flavor
For the Meat Sauce
- Ground Beef (1 lb) – Adds heartiness to the dish
- Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds depth of flavor
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Boosts the taste
- Tomato Sauce (24 oz jar) – Your favorite marinara or pasta sauce
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Adds classic herb flavors
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
For the Topping
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – For that gooey, cheesy top
- Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Helps brown the pasta layers
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, mix ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the creamy ricotta mixture over the spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
- Pour the meat sauce evenly over everything.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan, and serve!
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it slightly firm since it will cook more in the oven.
- Use a flavorful sauce – A good marinara or homemade sauce makes a big difference.
- Let it rest before slicing – This helps the layers hold together better.
- Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Italian