Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
The ultimate comfort food! Layers of spaghetti, creamy cheese filling, savory meat sauce, and melty mozzarella make this easy baked pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Servings: 8
Equipment
- pot
- skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9x13 Casserole dish
- foil
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles cooked and drained
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage for extra flavor
- 1 jar 24 ounces marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons salted butter cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta - Boil spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Meat Sauce - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef (or sausage) until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Filling - In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cottage cheese (or ricotta), and sour cream until smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole - Spread half of the cooked noodles into the bottom of the dish.
- Dot with butter pieces and spread half of the creamy cheese mixture on top.
- Pour half of the meat sauce over the cheese layer.
- Repeat with the remaining noodles, cheese mixture, and sauce.
- Add the Cheese & Bake - Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy - Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Storage & Freezer Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Assemble casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Yes! Ricotta gives the casserole a creamier, traditional lasagna flavor. Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Q: Can I use other meats?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a beef/sausage mix all work great.
