Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
1 lb spaghetti
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter, cut into pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add marinara sauce to the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
Layer the casserole:
Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the baking dish.
Dot with butter pieces.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 480 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature for a lump-free cheese layer. While the spaghetti cooks, brown the ground beef thoroughly and drain all excess fat to prevent a greasy final dish. When assembling, press the first spaghetti layer down gently to create a solid base. Use a spatula to spread the creamy cheese mixture carefully to avoid disturbing the noodles. Finally, let the baked casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving; this allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread, or steamed green beans. For a complete comfort food meal, add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. Leftovers reheat wonderfully in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch.
How-to Summary
In summary, Million Dollar Spaghetti is built in distinct layers: a buttery noodle base, a rich cream cheese spread, more noodles, a savory meat sauce, and a cheesy topping. The key steps are cooking the noodles al dente, browning and draining the meat, blending the creamy layer until smooth, and baking until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of pasta? While spaghetti is traditional, you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Ensure you cook it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
How can I make this dish lighter? Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, low-fat dairy products, and incorporate part-skim cheeses. You can also add a layer of sautéed spinach to the cheese mixture.
Why is my cheese layer grainy? This usually happens if the cream cheese was not fully softened before mixing. Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a silky-smooth blend.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti? It freezes best before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Do not skip draining the fat from the cooked ground beef, as this can make the dish oily. Ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened to prevent a chunky cheese layer. Finally, resist the urge to cover the dish with foil while baking, as this will prevent the top cheese layer from achieving a delicious golden-brown crust.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining familiar flavors in a decadent, layered format. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and the perfect harmony of creamy, meaty, and cheesy elements. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a spectacular dish that lives up to its luxurious name. It’s guaranteed to become a requested favorite for family dinners and potlucks alike.