Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

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If there’s one dish that never fails to please a crowd at my table, it’s Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe is pure comfort food—layered with spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and topped off with golden, melty cheese. It brings all the richness of lasagna but with a simpler twist that’s weeknight friendly and dinner-party ready. I love how it transforms humble pantry staples into something that feels indulgent and satisfying.

I’ve made this casserole for potlucks, family dinners, and even cozy Sunday meal preps, and it never disappoints. It’s that kind of dish where people go back for seconds and then ask for the recipe. What makes it a “million dollar” casserole isn’t the ingredients—it’s how they come together to taste like a million bucks.

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Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

It’s the ultimate mash-up of spaghetti and lasagna, offering the best of both worlds. You get the firm bite of pasta, the bold richness of a meaty marinara, and a creamy cheese center that’s totally unexpected. It freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal, and it feeds a hungry group without breaking the bank.

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What Kind of Spaghetti Should I Use?

Standard dried spaghetti works perfectly in this recipe. I go for the classic kind rather than angel hair or linguine, because the thickness holds up well under the weight of the cheese and sauce. Cook it al dente since it will continue to bake in the oven and absorb some of that amazing flavor from the layers.

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Options for Substitutions

You can easily adapt this casserole to suit different preferences. Ground beef is the go-to, but Italian sausage or ground turkey work beautifully too. For the cheese layer, cottage cheese can be swapped for ricotta or cream cheese. Want it meatless? Use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of the meat for a hearty vegetarian version. And if you’re gluten-free, sub in your favorite GF pasta.

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Ingredients for this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

• Spaghetti: The base of the dish. Cook it just until al dente so it holds up while baking.
• Ground Beef: Adds rich, savory flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or sausage.
• Marinara Sauce: Use a good-quality jarred marinara or homemade if you have time. This coats the meat and pasta with bold tomato flavor.
• Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient for that creamy, tangy layer.
• Ricotta Cheese: Lightens up the filling and adds smoothness.
• Sour Cream: Balances the richness with a little acidity and creaminess.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection on top.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty bite that elevates the dish.
• Butter: A few pats on the bottom layer add richness and prevent sticking.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a hint of freshness.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and gives the bottom a buttery crust.

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Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook it – it will finish cooking in the oven.

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Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes so the flavors meld.

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Step 4: Mix the Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth. This layer is what gives the casserole its signature creamy middle.

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Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Spread a few pats of butter at the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the cooked spaghetti. Spread the entire cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti and the rest of the meat sauce.

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Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top layer. This will create that irresistible golden-bubbly finish once baked.

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Step 7: Bake It

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.

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Step 8: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.

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How Long to Prepare the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Prep Time: Most of your time will go into cooking the pasta, browning the meat, and mixing the cheese layer. Expect about 20-25 minutes of active prep time. This is a great opportunity to multitask—boil your pasta while the meat is browning, and mix your cheeses in between.

Bake Time: Once layered, the casserole bakes for around 45 minutes total—30 minutes covered and 15 minutes uncovered to get that beautifully golden, bubbly cheese on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow everything to settle.

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Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti—it should be firm to the bite when it goes in the oven.
• Use room temperature cream cheese so it blends easily with the ricotta and sour cream.
• Let the casserole rest after baking to keep the layers intact when slicing.
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil just before serving adds freshness and color.
• Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for another day—this dish freezes beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the rest time: Slicing too soon can make the layers fall apart.
• Using watery sauce: If your marinara is too runny, simmer it longer before layering.
• Undermixing the cheese layer: It should be smooth and well-combined for best texture.
• Overbaking: Watch the last 15 minutes closely—cheese should be golden, not burnt.
• Forgetting to season the meat: Taste the meat sauce before layering—it should be flavorful on its own.

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What to Serve With Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite.

2. Caesar Salad

The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Think roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts for a simple, colorful side.

4. Antipasto Platter

A light starter with olives, cured meats, and cheeses sets a nice Italian tone.

5. Sparkling Water or Red Wine

Balance out the richness with a bubbly drink or a nice glass of Chianti.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover and warm in the oven.

Freezer: This casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of casserole)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Fat: ~25g
• Saturated Fat: ~12g
• Sugar: ~6g
• Sodium: ~720mg
• Fiber: ~3g
• Cholesterol: ~70mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between this and regular baked spaghetti?

Million Dollar Spaghetti has a rich, creamy cheese layer in the center—something traditional baked spaghetti doesn’t include.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready. Just add 10 more minutes to the bake time if coming straight from the fridge.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, although spaghetti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.

Is this casserole spicy?

Not by default. But you can add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage if you want some heat.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The oven gives the best results—cover with foil and heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes. For quick meals, microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.

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Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is one of those feel-good, always-a-hit kinds of meals. It’s simple to make, endlessly satisfying, and delivers comfort with every forkful. Whether you’re feeding a big family, prepping for the week, or just in the mood for cheesy, hearty deliciousness—this recipe is a sure win. Give it a try and taste how this humble pasta dish earns its million-dollar name.

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