Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

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🧀 Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

đź“– Introduction

Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. A hearty baked pasta dish layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and buttery noodles—it’s as decadent as it sounds. The “million dollar” name doesn’t come from a literal price tag, but from the luxurious, layered flavors that taste like a million bucks.

🌍 Origin and Cultural Significance

While not rooted in traditional Italian cuisine, Million Dollar Spaghetti is a beloved American-style casserole that draws inspiration from classic Italian dishes like baked ziti and lasagna. It gained popularity in Southern kitchens and across the U.S. due to its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd. The dish became especially popular in the early 2000s as part of the “church potluck” and comfort food revival.

Its cultural significance lies in its versatility—it’s a staple at family gatherings, holidays, and community dinners. It embodies the spirit of shared meals and comforting flavors that bring people together.

🧂 Ingredients & Quantity

Here’s what you’ll need for a 9×13-inch casserole (serves 8-10):

Main Ingredients:

  • Spaghetti – 1 lb (uncooked)
  • Ground beef – 1 lb
  • Italian sausage – 1/2 lb (optional, for added flavor)
  • Spaghetti sauce – 1 jar (24–26 oz)
  • Cream cheese – 8 oz (softened)
  • Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
  • Sour cream – 1 cup
  • Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
  • Butter – 1/2 cup (sliced into pats)

âž• Optional Additions

  • Chopped onions – 1 small (sautĂ©ed with meat)
  • Minced garlic – 2 cloves
  • Red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick
  • Fresh basil or parsley – for garnish
  • Spinach or mushrooms – sautĂ©ed and added to meat sauce for extra veggies
  • Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta – for a lighter texture

âś… Tips for Success

  • Undercook the pasta slightly – It will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese – It blends more smoothly.
  • Drain excess fat – after cooking the meat to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Let it rest – Allow the casserole to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving so it sets.
  • Double the recipe – It freezes well!

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, but reduce boiling time by 1-2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Brown ground beef (and sausage if using) in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic (if using), and cook until meat is browned. Drain fat.
  4. Add spaghetti sauce to the meat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Mix cheeses: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until creamy.
  6. Assemble casserole:
    • Layer half of the butter slices on the bottom of a greased 9×13 dish.
    • Add half the cooked spaghetti.
    • Spread cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
    • Top with the remaining spaghetti.
    • Add remaining butter pats over top.
    • Pour meat sauce evenly over the top.
    • Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  7. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let it rest before slicing and serving.

🍝 Description

Imagine twirling your fork into a mountain of buttery spaghetti, tucked between creamy, tangy cheese layers, and a rich, meaty tomato sauce—topped with golden, melted mozzarella. Every bite of this Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole delivers bold flavor, luscious texture, and that nostalgic comfort that makes this dish feel like a warm hug.

🔬 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Based on 10 servings:

  • Calories: ~520
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbohydrates: ~45g
  • Fat: ~28g
  • Saturated Fat: ~14g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sugar: ~7g
  • Sodium: ~900mg

Note: Values will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

🧾 Conclusion

Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a baked pasta dish—it’s a celebration of comfort food done right. With its creamy interior, hearty sauce, and crispy cheese top, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances richness with familiarity. Whether for a holiday dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, it brings both flavor and function to the table.

🌟 Recommendation

  • Make it ahead – It’s even better the next day!
  • Serve with: A crisp green salad and garlic bread to balance the richness.
  • Freeze: Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking for easy weeknight dinners.

🍽️ Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this casserole leans into indulgence, you can enjoy it more healthfully with a few tweaks:

  • Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta for extra fiber.
  • Swap some of the cheese with low-fat or plant-based alternatives.
  • Bulk up with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
  • Serve smaller portions alongside a fresh salad to balance the meal.

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