Million Dollar Spaghetti
Creamy and cheesy, Million Dollar Spaghetti combines savory beef, rich cheeses, and tender pasta, making it a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti and drain.
- Saute beef in butter until brown.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to the beef and remove from heat.
- Combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, scallions, and green pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding extra cream cheese or a bit of mozzarella cheese. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer more vegetable content, adding chopped spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture can enhance flavor and nutrition. Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal or use the leftovers in a Classic Baked Pasta Casserole for a different take.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving adds a delightful touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Mike'S Spaghetti Sauce for a richer flavor experience. For a festive gathering, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Lasagne D'Italia.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in intervals until warm. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which will help maintain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Million Dollar Spaghetti contains roughly 520 calories, with 11g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti and filling a day in advance. Store the components separately in the refrigerator and assemble before baking. This allows flavors to meld and makes for an easy meal prep option.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you prefer not to use cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative that will lend a similar creaminess. You can also use a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a different texture while still achieving that rich flavor.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti after assembling it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option for busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).