Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

 

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress? Try this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole recipe.

It’s a delicious twist on classic spaghetti that’s loaded with savory flavors and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a hearty meal, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large pot for boiling spaghetti
2. Colander for draining spaghetti
3. Large skillet or frying pan
4. Mixing bowls
5. 9×13-inch baking dish
6. Aluminum foil

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer. Top with the remaining spaghetti, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
7. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve: Remove the foil from the baking dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, perfect for any occasion or gathering. With its hearty layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese mixture, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!