Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

 

Ingredients

For the Pasta Layer

12 oz spaghetti

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)

½ cup sour cream

1 tsp garlic powder

½ cup shredded mozzarella

For the Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tbsp melted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease.

3. Add garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

4. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic powder, and shredded mozzarella until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

6. Spread half of the spaghetti in the dish. Top with all of the creamy cheese mixture.

7. Add the rest of the spaghetti on top, followed by the meat sauce.

8. Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan. Drizzle with melted butter.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

10. Let sit for 10 minutes before slicing.

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Tips & Variations

Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

Make Ahead: Assemble a day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Would you like any modifications or serving suggestions?