Million Dollar Spaghetti
This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a showstopper that combines Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a delightful cheese filling. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Not only is it rich in flavor, but it also offers a comforting blend of textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The best part? It can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and marinara creates a savory depth that you’ll crave.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice cooks can make this dish with ease.
- Cheesy Goodness: Layers of cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella ensure every bite is indulgent and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties.
- Great Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything in place will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or large spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling spaghetti evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausage and cooking onions for maximum flavor.
- 9×13 baking dish: Provides ample space to layer your spaghetti and fillings for even baking.
Ingredients
This million dollar spaghetti recipe has tons of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and an irresistible cheese filling. It’s then topped with even more cheese and baked to golden perfection!
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 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
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block Philly) (softened)
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375F and move the rack to the top third of the oven. This ensures even cooking and optimal browning.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl:
1. Add the cheese layer ingredients.
2. Stir them together until you’ve got a nice, smooth mixture.
3. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil a large pot of salted water:
1. Cook the spaghetti for about 2 minutes less than package directions suggest.
2. Once it’s done, drain it and add it back to the same pot.
Step 4: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the sausage meat along with the chopped onion.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes or until browned and cooked through while breaking up the meat.
Step 5: Add Garlic & Red Pepper Flakes
To the skillet:
1. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
2. Cook for about one minute.
3. Spoon out excess fat from the pan.
Step 6: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the skillet mixture to the pot with spaghetti:
1. Pour in marinara sauce.
2. Toss until everything is coated using tongs or two large spoons.
Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish
In a 9×13 baking dish:
1. Add half of the pasta/sauce mixture as an even layer.
Step 8: Spread Cheese Layer
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta/sauce layer:
1. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just aim for an even distribution.
Step 9: Add Remaining Pasta/Sauce Mix
Top with remaining pasta/sauce mixture:
1. Spread it out evenly on top of the cheese layer.
Step 10: Top with Mozzarella
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over everything:
This will create a deliciously cheesy crust once baked.
Step 11: Bake & Broil
Cover with foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes at 375F.
2. Remove foil and broil for a few minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned (watch carefully).
Step 12: Cool & Serve
Let sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving:
Use a spatula to cut into individual portions, seasoning with salt & pepper if needed.
Enjoy your homemade Million Dollar Spaghetti!
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, serving this pasta casserole can be both fun and delicious.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual dining experience. This allows guests to help themselves and makes for easy cleanup.
Individual Portions
- Cut the baked spaghetti into squares and serve on individual plates. This approach adds a touch of elegance and makes it easier for guests to manage their servings.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of fresh flavor.
Accompanied by Salad
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for added freshness. A simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the spaghetti.
With Garlic Bread
- Provide slices of warm garlic bread as an accompaniment. The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the flavors of the casserole perfectly.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti
To achieve the best results with your Million Dollar Spaghetti, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage and fresh herbs. This will elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti just shy of al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.
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Mix Cheese Varieties: Combining different cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan provides layers of flavor and texture.
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Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up better for serving and enhances presentation.
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Add Extra Sauces: If you like saucy spaghetti, consider adding more marinara sauce before baking. It keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Pairing side dishes with your Million Dollar Spaghetti can enhance your meal experience significantly. Here are some fantastic options:
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy slices are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a nice contrast to the rich spaghetti dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition to your plate, providing balance to your meal.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make a refreshing side option.
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Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli complements the flavors without overpowering them.
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Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses makes for an exciting appetizer before diving into the main course.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs add an elegant touch to your meal spread.
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Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve zucchini noodles as a side that pairs well with the rich flavors of spaghetti.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Million Dollar Spaghetti, a few common pitfalls can affect your results. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Cheese Layer: Many people forget to add the cheese layer. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture and flavor.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking spaghetti too long makes it mushy. Always cook it 2 minutes less than package instructions for the best texture.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: Leaving excess fat from the sausage can make your dish greasy. Make sure to spoon out any extra before mixing with pasta.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Some cooks overlook adding salt and pepper. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Not Letting It Rest: Cutting right after baking can result in messy servings. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps it set.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat to 350F, cover with foil, and bake until heated through (about 20-30 minutes).
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring between each (about 3-5 minutes total).
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Million Dollar Spaghetti that may help you:
Can I use other types of meat?
You can definitely substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or beef if you prefer.
What can I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I make Million Dollar Spaghetti vegetarian?
Use plant-based sausage alternatives and ensure your marinara sauce is free from meat products.
Can I prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it beforehand and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese as a substitute, but it will change the texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or using different cheeses to suit your taste!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort dish that combines hearty Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a luscious blend of creamy cheeses. This baked spaghetti casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its savory flavors and inviting textures, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. The best part? It can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375F.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano until smooth.
- Cook spaghetti in salted water for about 2 minutes less than package directions; drain and return to the pot.
- Brown Italian sausage with chopped onion in a skillet; add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for one more minute.
- Combine the sausage mixture with the spaghetti and marinara sauce; mix well.
- In a 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, spread cheese mixture on top, then add remaining pasta mix.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and broil until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 529
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 895mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 72mg
