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Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti: Cheesy Comfort That Wows Every Time

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting layered casserole with Italian sausage, marinara, and creamy cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Uncooked Spaghetti Opt for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
For the Meat Mixture
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Can be substituted with ground beef or turkey.
  • 1 medium Onion Substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; omit if sensitive to spice.
For the Sauce & Cheese
  • 1 jar Marinara Sauce Any brand works, or use homemade for added freshness.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Can substitute with mascarpone.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Swap for cottage cheese if desired.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pre-grated can be used but is less flavorful.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used for a fresher taste.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Consider a mix with provolone for a twist.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Dish
  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the top third.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano until smooth and creamy.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add uncooked spaghetti and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and return to the pot.
  4. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage and diced onion over medium-high heat until browned. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
  5. Transfer the sausage and onion mixture into the pot with spaghetti. Pour in the marinara sauce and toss until well coated.
  6. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Dollop with the cream cheese mixture, then add the remaining spaghetti.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove foil and switch oven to broil. Broil for 3-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow flavors to deepen by preparing the casserole a day in advance and refrigerating before baking.

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