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Million Dollar Spaghetti - Image 2

Million Dollar Spaghetti

This rich and comforting Million Dollar Spaghetti combines layers of pasta, creamy cheese, and savory meat sauce for a truly indulgent meal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound spaghetti cooked al dente
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 lean/fat ratio recommended
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cottage cheese small curd
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the beef, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and garlic powder until well combined.
  5. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the melted butter to coat evenly.
  6. Spread half of the buttered spaghetti in the prepared baking dish. Top with the cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the pasta.
  7. Layer the remaining spaghetti over the cream cheese mixture. Pour the meat sauce over the top, spreading it evenly.
  8. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the meat sauce.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a creamier texture, mix the cream cheese mixture with a bit of the pasta cooking water.
• Avoid overcooking the spaghetti to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Food Safety:
• Ensure ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to kill harmful bacteria.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume within 3-4 days.