Introduction
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich, cheesy, and comforting baked pasta dish that combines the best of spaghetti and lasagna. It’s popular for its creamy, layered texture and indulgent flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and budget-friendly.
Origins
While not an authentic Italian dish, Million Dollar Spaghetti is a modern American creation inspired by classic baked pasta dishes. It gained popularity due to its irresistible combination of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients List
To make Million Dollar Spaghetti, you’ll need:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Method of Preparation
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix the Cheese Layer: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Assemble the Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti in the dish, followed by the cheese mixture, then the remaining spaghetti.
- Add the Meat Sauce: Pour the prepared meat sauce over the spaghetti layers.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!
Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the spaghetti since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Season Well: Proper seasoning in the meat sauce enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Tips
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Beef: A great source of protein and iron.
- Tomato Sauce: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Cheese: Provides calcium for bone health.
- Garlic and Onion Powder: Known for their immune-boosting properties.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
Million Dollar Spaghetti is beloved for its creamy, cheesy layers and hearty meat sauce. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Interesting Facts
- The name “Million Dollar” refers to its rich and indulgent taste, not its cost.
- It can be made ahead and frozen for convenience.
- A vegetarian version can be made using mushrooms or lentils instead of meat.
Summarized Recipe
- Cook spaghetti and set aside.
- Brown ground beef, then mix with marinara sauce and seasonings.
- Blend cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic, and onion powder.
- Layer spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce in a baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes.
- Let rest, slice, and serve warm.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Spaghetti is an easy, delicious, and satisfying meal that brings comfort to any table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering, this baked pasta dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a bite of cheesy perfection!
