Introduction to Million Dollar Spaghetti
Why is it called Million Dollar Spaghetti?
You might be wondering what makes Million Dollar Spaghetti worth its extravagant name. The truth is, this crowd-pleasing dish combines the beloved flavors of creamy cheese and hearty meat sauce, all layered over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s the kind of casserole that delights your taste buds and fills your belly without breaking the bank. The name reflects not only the taste but also the joy it brings to family gatherings and friendly get-togethers.
This dish is particularly budget-friendly; with a total cost of about $8, you can easily serve 15 people! Imagine impressing your friends with a meal that tastes like a million bucks, without the hefty price tag. Plus, with easy prep and cook times—30 minutes each—this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want to whip up something special.
Million Dollar Spaghetti is versatile too! You can customize it by mixing up the meat or cheese, making it easily adaptable for any dietary preferences. If you're interested in finer details about this recipe, check out some inspiration from Food Network or explore pasta variations on Serious Eats. You won't be disappointed!
Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Essential Ingredients for the Casserole
To create your delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti, you'll need these essential ingredients:
- 16 ounces of spaghetti noodles: The foundation of this dish.
- ½ pound of ground beef: For that hearty, savory flavor.
- ½ pound of ground Italian sausage: Adds depth—feel free to switch to turkey sausage if you prefer!
- 1 small onion, chopped: For a touch of sweetness and aroma.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic!
- 24 ounces of marinara sauce: The key to a flavorful sauce.
- 3 tablespoons of butter: For richness.
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened: This adds creaminess to your layers.
- ¼ cup of sour cream: To enhance the richness.
- 1 cup of cottage cheese or ricotta: For that cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: A must-have for ooey-gooey texture.
- ⅔ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese: To elevate your dish.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
The beauty of Million Dollar Spaghetti lies in its versatility. Here are some optional ingredients you can add for a personal touch:
- Vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Italian herbs: Oregano or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs: For a delightful crunch on top.
Feel free to get creative! With such a flexible recipe, it’s easy to adapt it to your taste or dietary preferences. For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this guide on cooking with what you have.
Preparing Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is one of those dishes that always seems to impress—it's comforting, filling, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to gather friends and family around the dinner table. Let’s break down how to create this crowd-pleaser in a way that's simple and fun.
Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting this step done early means you won’t have to wait around after assembling your Million Dollar Spaghetti. A preheated oven ensures an even bake, so your pasta casserole comes out perfectly gooey and golden.
Make the meat sauce
While the oven warms up, it’s time to dive into the heart of your dish—the meat sauce. In a large skillet, combine ½ pound of ground beef and ½ pound of ground Italian sausage over medium heat. As these cook, don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a meat chopper to break the meat down into crumbles for more texture. Once the meat is browned, add a chopped small onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Mix in 24 ounces of marinara sauce, making this sauce the star of your Million Dollar Spaghetti. Set it aside while you prepare the next layer.
Prepare the spaghetti noodles
In a large pot, boil water and cook 16 ounces of spaghetti according to package instructions, aiming for that perfect “al dente” texture. The key is to drain the spaghetti and then quickly toss it in a large mixing bowl with 3 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of the reserved marinara sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. This step adds flavor and keeps the noodles from sticking together.
Create the cheese layer
Now for the cheesy goodness! In a separate bowl, mix together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of sour cream, and 1 cup of cottage cheese or ricotta cheese. The blended texture of these cheeses will create a dreamy layer that adds richness to your Million Dollar Spaghetti.
Assemble the layers
Let’s get assembling! Pour half of your spaghetti into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread the cheese layer evenly over this base. Then, add the remaining spaghetti, finally topping it with the meat sauce you've prepared. To finish, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and ⅔ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake the Million Dollar Spaghetti
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until it's hot and bubbly, with a lovely melted cheese top. Pro tip: check after 20 minutes; if the cheese seems to be browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Once it's out of the oven, let your Million Dollar Spaghetti sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows everything to set—giving you those perfect cuts when you dish it out.
This dish is a fantastic make-ahead option, too, so consider prepping it a day in advance, or even freezing it for later! Happy cooking!
Variations on Million Dollar Spaghetti
Vegetarian Million Dollar Spaghetti
For those looking to enjoy a deliciously hearty meal without meat, you can easily create a vegetarian version of million dollar spaghetti. Simply omit the ground beef and Italian sausage, or substitute them with your favorite plant-based ground meat. Adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and texture, making it satisfying for everyone.
Alternative Pastas
While classic spaghetti is the star of this dish, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, or go gluten-free with brown rice or chickpea pasta. These options not only cater to various dietary needs but also add unique flavors to your million dollar spaghetti. Explore your pantry and get creative; the possibilities are endless! For more pasta inspirations, check out AllRecipes or Food Network.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Prepare Ahead of Time
Making Million Dollar Spaghetti in advance is a breeze! You can prep everything a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe up to the assembly step, allow it to cool, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. You can also make the sauce, noodles, and cheese layer separately a few days prior. This makes weeknight dinners effortless and flavors even better after sitting!
Freezing Instructions
Want to stock your freezer? Just prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover with greased aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge for 1-2 days, then bake covered for 20 minutes and uncovered for another 20-25. If cooking from frozen, bake covered for 40 minutes, then uncovered until bubbly.
For more easy meal preps, check out this article.
Serving suggestions for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Pairing with sides and salads
To elevate your Million Dollar Spaghetti experience, pair it with fresh salads or delicious sides. A classic Caesar salad adds a nice crunch, while garlic bread is a comforting staple that everyone loves. Consider grilled vegetables or a caprese salad for a fresh twist. For a satisfying touch, serve with a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans — both complement the flavors in the casserole beautifully.
Ideal occasions for serving
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a versatile dish perfect for various occasions. It shines at family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or even cozy weeknight dinners. The generous servings make it ideal for meal prep or potlucks. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, so you can serve it at birthday parties or game nights without breaking the bank. Imagine delightful moments shared over a warm dish that everyone enjoys, making it the star of any occasion.
Time Breakdown for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Preparation Time
Get ready to dive into deliciousness with a prep time of about 30 minutes. This includes chopping, mixing, and setting everything up for a perfect baked dish.
Cooking Time
Allow approximately 30 minutes for cooking. During this time, your kitchen will fill with amazing aromas from the savory meat sauce and bubbling cheese.
Total Time
All in all, you're looking at a total time of just 1 hour. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends!
Enjoy this easy-to-make Million Dollar Spaghetti that is sure to impress any crowd. For more details and tips, visit this expert resource on pasta dishes.
Nutritional Information for Million Dollar Spaghetti
When diving into the deliciousness of Million Dollar Spaghetti, it’s good to know how it fits into your daily nutrition. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key nutritional components:
Calories
Each serving of Million Dollar Spaghetti contains around 350 calories. This makes it a filling option without tipping the scale too far.
Protein
With approximately 17 grams of protein, this dish packs a nutritious punch, making it perfect for those post-work workouts or a hearty family meal.
Sodium
However, keep an eye on sodium intake; each serving has about 605 mg. If you’re watching your sodium levels, consider using low-sodium marinara sauce or reducing added salt.
Feel free to explore more about dietary needs here or check out the nutritional details specific to your ingredients to tailor this dish to your lifestyle!
FAQs about Million Dollar Spaghetti
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While Million Dollar Spaghetti typically features ground beef and Italian sausage for that hearty flavor, feel free to get creative. Ground turkey or chicken works well, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Personalize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs!
How can I store leftovers?
If you have any Million Dollar Spaghetti left, storing it is super simple. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. If you're looking to enjoy it later, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Definitely! Swapping regular spaghetti for whole wheat pasta is a great way to incorporate more fiber into your meal. You may notice a slightly nuttier flavor, but it still pairs perfectly with the rich layers of cheese and sauce in your Million Dollar Spaghetti.
Conclusion on Million Dollar Spaghetti
In conclusion, Million Dollar Spaghetti is more than just a meal—it's an experience that brings people together. With its comforting layers of flavors and budget-friendly ingredients, you can't go wrong with this crowd-pleaser. Give it a try at your next gathering and watch everyone rave! For more delicious recipes, check out Food Network for inspiration.
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Equipment
- Meat Chopper
- large pot
- 14 inch skillet
- 9x13 casserole dish
Ingredients
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- ½ pound ground beef
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage or pork sausage
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage, season with salt and pepper. Remove most of the grease. Add onions and garlic; cook until onion is translucent. Add all but ½ cup of marinara sauce to the mixture and stir to combine. Set aside.
- Prepare noodles: Cook Spaghetti according to package instructions, just until 'al dente'. Drain, and place hot spaghetti in a large mixing bowl with butter and ½ cup reserved marinara sauce; toss to combine.
- Make Cheese layer: Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese in a bowl and mix well.
- Assemble: Pour HALF of the pasta into a 9x13'' pan. Smooth cheese layer on top. Top with remaining noodles. Add meat sauce on top and smooth into an even layer. Top with mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Check at 20 minutes; if cheese is browning too quickly, tent with tinfoil. Wait 15 minutes before cutting and serving.
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