**The Ultimate Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe**

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food, Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a must-try! This dish combines the richness of lasagna with the simplicity of baked spaghetti, creating a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful meal. With layers of savory meat sauce, a luscious cheese mixture, and perfectly cooked pasta, this casserole is truly worthy of its name.

Unlike traditional baked spaghetti, this dish features a decadent cheese layer made from cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream, adding luxurious creaminess to every bite. If you love making hearty casseroles, check out these pro casserole baking tips for the best texture and flavor.

For those who love meal prepping, this casserole is freezer-friendly and perfect for making ahead of time. Learn how to properly freeze and store pasta dishes with this expert guide to keep it fresh and delicious.

**Why Is It Called Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?**

The name comes from its rich, indulgent taste, which feels like a million-dollar meal but is made with affordable ingredients. Here’s what makes it so special:

Creamy & Cheesy: A blend of cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream makes it extra rich.
Savory & Flavorful: The homemade meat sauce adds depth with garlic, Italian herbs, and marinara.
Perfectly Layered: Unlike traditional baked spaghetti, this casserole is layered like lasagna, ensuring a perfect bite every time.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Before you start cooking, gather these essential ingredients:

For the Pasta & Meat Sauce:

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
½ cup ricotta cheese
1 egg (helps bind the cheese layer)

For Layering & Topping:

2 tbsp butter (to prevent pasta from sticking)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti until just al dente (slightly firm).
Drain and toss with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt & pepper.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend flavors.

3. Make the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta, and egg until smooth.

4. Layer the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Layer as follows:

Half the spaghetti → Spread evenly on the bottom.
Cheese mixture → Spread gently over the pasta.
Remaining spaghetti → Layer on top of the cheese.
Meat sauce → Spread evenly over the pasta.
Mozzarella & Parmesan → Sprinkle generously on top.

5. Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations for Customizing Your Casserole

Healthier Options

Swap spaghetti for whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter dish.

Extra Cheesy Version

Add extra mozzarella for a gooey top.
Mix in cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.

Spicy Kick

Use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Vegetarian Version

Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Try plant-based ground meat for a meat-free option.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Assemble the casserole before baking, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

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The Ultimate Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Why Is It Called Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?