If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that mingles the essence of comfort food with a touch of luxury, the Million Dollar Spaghetti is your culinary dream come true. This delightfully decadent recipe marries the creamy texture of cheeses with hearty spaghetti and savory meat flavors, creating an irresistible dish that, quite frankly, feels like a million dollars. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something indulgent, this recipe promises to leave an impression.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipments
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Spatula
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Keep the spaghetti aside as you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in the pasta sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth. This mixture should be well-combined and creamy to provide a rich layer along with your pasta noodles.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by layering half of the cooked spaghetti in a greased baking dish. Add the cheese mixture on top, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining spaghetti. Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti, ensuring it covers all noodles to prevent drying during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your spaghetti layers. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For a crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Let the spaghetti rest for about 5 minutes after baking to make cutting and serving easier. Use a large spatula to serve slices of the spaghetti bake, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and pair it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
The key to making an unforgettable Million Dollar Spaghetti is in layering the flavors. Ensure the cream cheese mixture is smoothed out without any lumps, and choose a high-quality pasta sauce for the best taste. For an added dimension, consider sneaking in some minced garlic or sautéed onions with the beef.
High-Protein Twist: A Hearty Upgrade
If you’re looking to boost the protein content, consider swapping out the ground beef for a leaner cut like ground turkey or chicken. Add extra cottage cheese to your cheese mixture, and if ground white meat isn’t your style, diced chicken breast makes an excellent substitution. This variant not only adds more protein but also keeps the dish incredibly filling.
Low-Carb Option: Satisfying and Keto-Friendly Delight
For those pursuing a low-carb lifestyle, replace traditional spaghetti with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. These alternatives cut down the carbohydrate content while still delivering the lusciousness of the Million Dollar Spaghetti. Use low-sugar pasta sauce and mix in extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for flavor and nutrients.
Storage Instructions
Leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions, which will keep for up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before serving, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
FAQs
- What can I substitute for cottage cheese? Ricotta cheese is an excellent substitute for those looking for a different texture or taste.
- Can this dish be made ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish as directed, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to one day before baking.
- How can I add more vegetables to this recipe? Sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms pair beautifully with the existing ingredients and can be added to the meat sauce.
- Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure that all sauces and cheeses are certified gluten-free.
- What should I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti? This rich, satisfying main course pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Its Weight in Gold
The Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a delightful testament to what happens when comforting ingredients meet robust flavors. Its versatility with high protein or low-carb adjustments makes it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re solidifying family traditions or just venturing into new culinary territory, let this savory bake be a recurring star on your dining table. Share this delicious creation with your friends and family, and don’t forget to leave your comments below to share your take on this classic dish!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- spaghetti
- ground beef
- pasta sauce
- cream cheese
- sour cream
- cottage cheese
- mozzarella cheese
- olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Chopped parsley