Million Dollar Spaghetti
A comforting dish that combines layers of pasta, rich meats, and a blend of creamy cheeses, baked to perfection for a family feast.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 ounces Spaghetti (Cooked to al dente)
- 1 pound Italian Sausage (or ground beef or turkey)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 medium Onion (Chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- to taste Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) For added heat
Sauces and Cheeses
- 24 ounces Marinara Sauce Store-bought or homemade
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese Sour cream can be a good alternative
- 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese is an easy substitute
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated)
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil your spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain it and set aside.
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage (or your choice of meat) along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until browned and fragrant.
Mixing and Layering
- Mix Sauces and Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Stir until smooth.
- Layer: In a greased baking dish, start layering. Begin with half of the spaghetti, then half of the sauce mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers.
- Top It Off: Once you’ve layered the last bit, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake It: Place in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
For a successful dish, ensure your spaghetti is truly al dente to prevent mushiness after baking. Feel free to mix in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. When layering, make sure to cover the pasta completely with sauce so it doesn't dry out during baking.