Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect dish: Million Dollar Spaghetti. This recipe is one of those gems that brings everyone to the table with its rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this baked spaghetti will make your home smell heavenly and your loved ones feel cherished.

What makes this Million Dollar Spaghetti truly special is its layered goodness. With hearty Italian sausage, a luscious marinara sauce, and generous amounts of creamy cheeses, it’s hard to resist diving in for seconds (or thirds!). Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare ahead of time, ensuring that you spend more quality moments with your family and less time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family favorite: Everyone loves a good spaghetti dish, and this one is no exception! It’s sure to please picky eaters and kids alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Perfect for busy evenings!
• Delicious layers of flavor: The combination of sausage, marinara, and cheese creates a mouthwatering explosion of taste that you won’t forget.
• Simple ingredients: You probably already have most of these items at home! No need for fancy ingredients here.
• Comfort food at its best: There’s just something about baked pasta that warms the soul and brings people together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking this Million Dollar Spaghetti is as easy as gathering some simple, wholesome ingredients. You might even feel nostalgic as you whip up this classic dish! Here are all the goodies you’ll be using:

For the Pasta

• 1 pound uncooked spaghetti

For the Filling

• 1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce

For the Cheese Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Variations

The beauty of Million Dollar Spaghetti is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Instead of Italian sausage, try ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.
• Go veggie: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Add some spice: If you love heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick.
• Cheese overload: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheese varieties like gouda or cheddar for an exciting twist!

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that when your casserole is ready to bake, it will cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown finish we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, stir together all the cheese layer ingredients until smooth. A well-mixed filling is key; it creates that delightful creaminess throughout each bite!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook your spaghetti for two minutes less than what the package says—this helps prevent mushy noodles after baking! Drain and return them to their pot.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the sausage and chopped onion. Break up the meat as it cooks until it’s browned and fully cooked through—about 10 minutes. The onion should become soft and fragrant.

Step 5: Add Flavor

Stir in minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes into the skillet. Cooking these for an additional minute enhances their flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your sausage mixture into the pot of drained pasta along with those jars of marinara sauce. Toss everything together using tongs or spoons until every noodle is coated in that delicious sauce.

Step 7: Layer It Up

Spoon half of your pasta/sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread it out evenly before adding that heavenly cheese mixture on top—don’t worry about making it perfect!

Step 8: Finish Layering

Spread out the remaining pasta/sauce on top of the cheese layer before generously sprinkling mozzarella over everything. This will create that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 9: Bake It Right

Cover your dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and broil briefly until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy

Once baked, let your Million Dollar Spaghetti sit for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into portions. Serve hot with added salt and pepper if needed. Just a heads-up—it may not cut into perfect squares right away, but trust me—the taste makes up for it!

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Million Dollar Spaghetti as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Million Dollar Spaghetti

Making Million Dollar Spaghetti is a breeze, especially with these helpful tips to elevate your dish!

• Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: A great sauce can make or break your dish. Opt for a jar of marinara that you love, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own for a fresh flavor boost.
• Experiment with Cheese: While this recipe calls for mozzarella, feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist. Different cheeses can provide varied flavors and textures that enhance the overall experience.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes! Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, feel free to omit them entirely. Tailoring spices to your taste ensures everyone enjoys the meal.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the spaghetti to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This way, you’ll have cleaner slices when serving, making it more presentable on the plate.
• Double the Recipe for Leftovers: This dish freezes beautifully! Consider making a double batch so you can enjoy leftovers later in the week. Just store in an airtight container and reheat when needed.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

Presentation matters when it comes to serving Million Dollar Spaghetti, and there are several ways to make it even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing herbal note that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grating some fresh Parmesan on top just before serving adds an extra layer of flavor and makes your dish look gourmet.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your spaghetti dish. Its buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with Italian cuisine.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables are not only colorful but add a healthy touch to your meal. They can provide a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the spaghetti.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant green color to your plate. It’s simple yet effective in enhancing your meal’s appeal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Million Dollar Spaghetti will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to manage your leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, allow the dish to cool completely.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
• For larger portions, reheat in a preheated oven at 350F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Million Dollar Spaghetti that might help you out!

Can I use different types of sausage in Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Million Dollar Spaghetti?

You can add extra herbs like basil or thyme, sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers, or even a dash of lemon zest for brightness!

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer and makes for easy reheating throughout the week.

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti without cream cheese?

Certainly! You can substitute cream cheese with additional ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Million Dollar Spaghetti as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings family and friends together around the table. With its cheesy goodness and hearty layers, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!