If you’re after a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug in every forkful, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is your new best friend. This layered spaghetti bake takes humble ingredients — ground beef, creamy cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, and tangy marinara — and turns them into a culinary masterpiece that’s both easy and impressive. Every bite delivers rich, gooey, savory goodness that makes this recipe a guaranteed hit at family dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you make this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, it will quickly rise to a top spot on your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and inviting color — making this dish as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup while keeping the baking dish ready for layering.
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the browned meat, balancing the savory components.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a flavorful punch throughout the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that gives the dish substance and satisfying richness.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided: A blend of herbs that brings that classic Italian flair enhancing every layer.
- 3 cups marinara sauce, divided: Provides tangy tomato brightness and moisture, tying the dish together.
- 1 pound spaghetti: The star pasta that’s cooked just shy of al dente to absorb flavors without turning mushy.
- Kosher salt, to taste (for pasta water): Essential for properly seasoning the spaghetti from the inside out.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates a unbelievably creamy and smooth texture in the cheese layer.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds lightness and a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream cheese.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the cheesy layer with a gentle garlicky note.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: The melty, golden topping that brings everything together with ooey-gooey goodness.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Meat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are tender. Drain any excess grease to keep it from getting greasy, then season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce. This flavorful meat mixture will become one of the layers in your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While you’re prepping the meat, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it’s just slightly undercooked — about 3 minutes less than al dente. This is key because the noodles will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing all the luscious sauce and cheese. Drain the pasta and toss it immediately with 1 cup of marinara sauce to keep the strands separated and add flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This cheese mixture is what makes the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe feel so indulgently luxurious — think creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Now for the fun part. In your prepared baking dish, spread half of the sauced spaghetti evenly across the bottom. Dollop and spread the cheese mixture over the pasta, creating a creamy layer that’s going to make every bite irresistibly good. Top the cheese with the remaining spaghetti, then spread the savory meat sauce over the top. Finally, sprinkle the entire dish with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the layered masterpiece in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. If you want a crispier cheese topping, pop it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Serve this steaming hot, cheesy goodness immediately and watch everyone’s faces light up.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of freshness and a lovely contrast in color to the rich, golden layers. You could also grate some Parmesan over the top before serving for that extra salty, nutty hit that elevates each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad dressed lightly with a simple vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread is also a perfect partner to soak up any sauce left on your plate. These sides keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a homey family style feel, bring the baking dish straight to the table so everyone can scoop out their portion. Or for a bit of flair, serve portions in individual ramekins topped with a sprig of fresh herbs. Either way, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe always impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, tightly cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors only get better the next day, making this an ideal make-ahead meal for busy nights.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire dish before baking or freeze leftovers in portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty foil to keep it fresh. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy without losing that creamy, comforting texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works but avoid overheating to keep it creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works best to hold and layer all the ingredients, feel free to experiment with penne, rotini, or other sturdy shapes that hold sauce well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. The rich cheese layers still make it satisfying and delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What type of marinara sauce should I use?
Choose a high-quality marinara sauce that you love. Whether store-bought or homemade, it’s the tomato base that shines here, so picking a flavorful one makes a big difference.
Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are excellent choices to boost flavor and nutrition in the meat sauce layer without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about layered cheesy pasta dishes, and the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe hits every note just right. It’s hands-down one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again because it’s just that good. So go ahead, dive in and treat yourself to a meal that feels like a celebration every time. You’re going to love sharing this crowd-pleaser with anyone lucky enough to be at your table.
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring layers of tender spaghetti, seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta and cream cheese mixture, and gooey melted mozzarella. This hearty casserole combines rich marinara, Italian spices, and a perfect blend of cheeses for a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- Cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- 3 cups marinara sauce, divided
Pasta
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Kosher salt, to taste (for pasta water)
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat and brown meat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Season the meat mixture with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti slightly under al dente by boiling it for approximately 3 minutes less than the package directions recommend, so it has a firm texture after baking. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with 1 cup of marinara sauce to coat it and prevent sticking.
- Make cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Layer ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the sauced spaghetti evenly. Spoon and spread the cheese mixture over the pasta layer. Top this with the remaining spaghetti, followed by the prepared meat sauce, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Add mozzarella and bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the assembled casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Optional broil for crispiness: For a crispier and golden cheese topping, switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti!
Notes
- For best results, do not overcook the spaghetti during boiling; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture or pre-shredded for convenience.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking directly from cold.
