Million Dollar Spaghetti
This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese filling. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Its standout quality lies in the layers of flavor and texture, making every bite an indulgent experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy cheeses creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this baked spaghetti can be made by cooks of all skill levels.
- Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the deliciousness the next day without losing flavor.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this cheesy, hearty dish, making it perfect for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools! Having everything ready will make preparing your Million Dollar Spaghetti seamless and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 baking dish
- Tongs or large spoons
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling spaghetti evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors.
- Mixing bowls: Handy for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Baking dish: Provides enough space for layering all components of the spaghetti casserole.
Ingredients
This million dollar spaghetti recipe has tons of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and an irresistible cheese filling. It’s then topped with even more cheese and baked to golden perfection!
For the Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
For the Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block Philly) (softened)
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Additional Seasoning
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl:
1. Add all cheese layer ingredients.
2. Stir them together until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot:
1. Boil salted water.
2. Cook spaghetti 2 minutes less than package directions suggest.
3. Drain it and return it to the pot.
Step 4: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add Italian sausage meat with chopped onion.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes or until browned while breaking up meat.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
To the skillet:
1. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about a minute.
2. Spoon out excess fat from the pan.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the sausage mixture to the pot containing pasta:
1. Pour in marinara sauce.
2. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish
In a 9×13 baking dish:
1. Add half of pasta/sauce mixture evenly across bottom.
Step 8: Spread Cheese Layer
Over pasta/sauce layer:
1. Spread prepared cheese mixture evenly (it doesn’t need to be perfect).
Step 9: Top with Remaining Pasta Mixture
Add remaining pasta/sauce mixture on top:
1. Spread it out evenly, then top with mozzarella cheese.
Step 10: Bake the Casserole
Cover with foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes at 375F.
2. Remove foil; broil briefly until cheese is bubbly and golden brown—watch carefully!
Step 11: Serve
Let sit for 5-10 minutes:
1. Cut into portions with a spatula.
2. Season with salt & pepper if needed before serving.
Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti! This dish is sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike!
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti
Serving Million Dollar Spaghetti can elevate your dining experience. Enjoy it as a comforting main dish or pair it with other food for a complete meal.
Casual Family Dinner
- Serve the spaghetti directly from the baking dish for a cozy family night.
- Pair with garlic bread for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
Potluck Delight
- Cut into squares and serve on a platter for easy sharing.
- Complement with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Meal Prep Magic
- Portion out individual servings in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Add some steamed vegetables on the side for added nutrition.
Game Day Feast
- Present in a large serving bowl during game day gatherings.
- Offer assorted toppings like extra cheese or crushed red pepper flakes on the side.
Romantic Dinner
- Plate elegantly by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve alongside a glass of red wine to enhance the Italian flavors.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti
To achieve the best results with your Million Dollar Spaghetti, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, quality ingredients can make all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures your pasta holds up during baking.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps it set, making for easier serving.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as provolone or gouda.
- Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify herbs and spices according to your preference for heat and flavor intensity.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Pairing sides with your Million Dollar Spaghetti can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Bread – A classic choice that perfectly complements the rich sauce.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons adds freshness.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly seasoned broccoli provides a healthy, crunchy contrast.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that balances flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Italian Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses enhances an Italian theme.
- Coleslaw – A tangy slaw can offer a refreshing bite against the savory spaghetti.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an elegant appetizer option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Million Dollar Spaghetti.
- Skipping the cheese mixing step: If you neglect to mix the cream cheese, ricotta, and parmesan properly, your cheese layer may be clumpy. Take the time to blend them until smooth for a better texture.
- Overcooking the spaghetti: Cooking the pasta longer than recommended can lead to mushy spaghetti. Remember, it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Not draining excess fat: Failing to remove excess fat from the sausage mixture can make your dish greasy. Spoon out any visible fat after cooking before combining with pasta.
- Ignoring seasoning: Missing out on adding salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors.
- Forgetting to let it rest: Cutting into your casserole immediately after baking can lead to messy portions. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes for better slicing and serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Million Dollar Spaghetti can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Million Dollar Spaghetti.
Can I use different types of meat in Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes, you can swap Italian sausage for ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian substitutes. Each option brings its unique flavor.
How do I customize my Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
What is the best way to serve Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Serve it hot, garnished with fresh basil or extra parmesan cheese for a delightful touch!
Can I prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just a comforting meal; it’s perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. With its cheesy layers and savory sauce, this recipe is sure to satisfy anyone’s cravings. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a deliciously layered pasta dish that brings together savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese filling for a truly indulgent experience. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this comforting casserole is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With its blend of flavors and textures, every bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served on its own or accompanied by garlic bread and salad, Million Dollar Spaghetti is bound to become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 jars (24 ounces each) marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano until smooth.
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water for 8 minutes or until al dente; drain.
- Brown Italian sausage with chopped onion in a skillet; add minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Combine sausage mixture with spaghetti and marinara sauce; mix well.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture, then the cheese layer, followed by the remaining pasta topped with mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and broil until cheese is golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
