Million Dollar Spaghetti(Casserole)
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting casserole layered with flavorful meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and tender spaghetti. Its rich, cheesy layers make it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a hearty and satisfying meal with a blend of savory, creamy, and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti and drain.
- Saute the ground beef in butter until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, scallions, and minced green pepper.
- In a 2-quart square casserole, spread half of the cooked spaghetti and cover with the cheese mixture.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top and pour melted butter over the spaghetti if desired.
- Spread the tomato/meat sauce over the top layer.
- Chill the casserole before baking.
- Remove from refrigerator 20 minutes before baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Serve with green salad and French bread if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy texture, ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing with the other cheeses. You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option or swap cottage cheese for ricotta. Add some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-made spaghetti sauce instead of canned tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Million Dollar Spaghetti with a crisp green salad and crusty French bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Baked Beans And Meat Sauce. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and the leftovers make for an easy lunch. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the casserole for up to three months; just ensure it is well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Million Dollar Spaghetti(Casserole) contains roughly 693 calories, with 15g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1490mg per serving (65% 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 casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, consider using mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. You can also use a blend of ricotta and sour cream to achieve a comparable richness.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Million Dollar Spaghetti. Just be sure to cook them beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
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).