Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, rich seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese filling, and melted mozzarella create a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter
For the Meat Sauce
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
24 oz (680 g) marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Creamy Cheese Layer
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
Topping
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with butter.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
Spread half of the spaghetti into the baking dish.
Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the pasta.
Add the remaining spaghetti.
Pour the meat sauce over the top.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips
Substitute ricotta for cottage cheese for a richer texture.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 620 per serving
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
