Million Dollar Spaghetti

This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that combines rich Italian sausage, savory marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese filling, all baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or comforting weeknight meals, this dish brings the taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort. Its standout qualities lie in its layered flavors and gooey cheese topping that will leave everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of Italian sausage and marinara creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks at any level.
• Great for gatherings: This dish serves 8 and is ideal for parties or family meals.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for convenience.
• Leftover magic: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Baking dish (9×13)
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or large spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling spaghetti to the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Used for browning the sausage and sautéing the onions and garlic, which enhances flavor.
• Baking dish: Holds all the layers together while baking for that golden finish.

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!

For the Pasta

• 1 pound uncooked spaghetti

For the Meat Sauce

• 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

For the Cheese Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block Philly) (softened)
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, add the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Stir them together until you achieve a smooth mixture. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti for 2 minutes less than package directions suggest. Drain it well and place it back in the same pot.

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage meat along with chopped onion. Cook while breaking up the sausage until browned and fully cooked—about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes into the skillet with sausage. Cook for about one minute. Spoon out any excess fat from the pan.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Pour the skillet mixture into the pot containing pasta. Add both jars of marinara sauce and toss everything until well coated. Using tongs makes this easy!

Step 7: Layer Half in Baking Dish

Spread half of your pasta/sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish in an even layer.

Step 8: Add Cheese Layer

Spoon your prepared cheese mixture evenly over this first layer of pasta/sauce.

Step 9: Finish Layering Pasta/Sauce

Add remaining pasta/sauce on top of the cheese layer, spreading it evenly across.

Step 10: Top with Mozzarella

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of your layered casserole.

Step 11: Bake It!

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden brown—watch closely!

Step 12: Serve

Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into portions using a spatula. Season with salt & pepper if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Million Dollar Spaghetti!

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

Serving Million Dollar Spaghetti is all about enhancing its delicious flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making each meal a delightful experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the spaghetti.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top can brighten the dish and add a fresh taste that balances the richness of the cheese.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A crisp mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.

Add a Sprinkle of Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering red pepper flakes on the side allows everyone to customize their dish to their liking.

Include Parmesan Cheese

• Grating fresh parmesan on top before serving can elevate the flavors, making every bite even more indulgent.

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How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti

To achieve the best results with your Million Dollar Spaghetti, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and fresh cheeses. This will enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it just under al dente ensures it holds up well in the baking process without becoming mushy.

• Mix Thoroughly: Make sure to mix the pasta and sauce well before layering. This ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to cut into portions.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or fontina for added depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti

Pairing side dishes with Million Dollar Spaghetti can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, perfect for dipping into sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a crunchy accompaniment.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a nutritious green side.
6. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, olives, and cheeses creates an appetizer that’s fun to share before dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Million Dollar Spaghetti can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the cheese mixture – Make sure the cheese filling is smooth and well-blended. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cook the spaghetti just 2 minutes less than the package directions. This helps keep the noodles firm and prevents them from becoming mushy when baked.
• Not draining excess fat – After cooking the sausage, be sure to spoon out any excess fat. This prevents your casserole from becoming greasy.
• Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! It enhances the flavors in your dish significantly.
• Rushing the baking process – Covering with foil initially keeps moisture in, but don’t skip broiling at the end for that perfect cheesy top.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will last up to 4 days.

Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover; heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Million Dollar Spaghetti, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of pasta for Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute other pasta shapes such as penne or rigatoni. Just keep an eye on cooking times.

How can I customize Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also use ground beef instead of sausage if preferred.

What makes this recipe Million Dollar?

The combination of rich cheeses and hearty sausage creates a luxurious taste that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti suitable for freezing?

Yes! This dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a comforting meal that combines rich flavors with delightful textures. Its versatility allows for many customizations, whether adding more veggies or swapping proteins. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!