Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat.
- Cook until the beef is browned.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 5–10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer
In a bowl mix together:
- Ricotta or cottage cheese
- Cream cheese
- Sour cream
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Spread half of the spaghetti on the bottom.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
- Pour the meat sauce evenly over the pasta.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Place small slices of butter over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
This helps the layers hold together.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Million Dollar Spaghetti is perfect with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil
✅ Chef Tip:
For extra flavor, mix ½ cup cooked bacon or Italian sausage into the meat sauce.
If you’d like, I can also show you the “Million Dollar Lasagna” version that many restaurants use — it’s even creamier and extremely popular online. 🍝🔥