Welcome to a flavorsome journey featuring the Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti. This rich and hearty dish will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Combining layers of savory beef, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish can turn a simple weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
How to Make Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside. Be sure to toss it with a tablespoon of butter to keep it from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and add the marinara sauce. Stir until well combined and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy. This creamy layer is what takes this baked spaghetti to the next level!
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In your 9×13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a little of the meat sauce on the bottom. Follow with a layer of the cooked spaghetti. Next, spread the cheese mixture over the spaghetti, then add more meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, this gives the layers time to settle.
How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti
Serve this Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti hot and fresh, garnished with fresh parsley for a hint of color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad and some garlic bread to soak up that delightful sauce.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure your dish is a total success, make sure to use full-fat dairy products; they melt better and provide a richer taste. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. Finally, letting the baked spaghetti rest for a few minutes before serving allows the layers to set for easier cutting and serving.
Packed with Protein: A Meat Lover’s Dream
For those looking to boost the protein, consider adding extra lean ground beef or even turkey sausage. Another great option is to toss in some diced chicken breast, which cooks beautifully in the sauce, ensuring every bite is as filling as it is delicious.
Low-Carb Indulgence: Guilt-Free Enjoyment
If you’re watching your carb intake, fret not! Substitute the regular spaghetti with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. These options soak up the sauce just as nicely and bring a delightful texture without the carbs.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the crispy top layer intact, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish and store in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
- Can I freeze Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti? Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- What can I use instead of cottage cheese? Ricotta cheese is a great alternative for a smoother texture.
- Can I add vegetables? Sure! Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers enhances the flavors.
Relishing Every Bite: Share Your Experience
This Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that brings everyone together. We invite you to try it, share your thoughts, and spread the word! Comment below on how your version turned out!
Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- spaghetti
- marinara sauce
- cottage cheese
- sour cream
- cream cheese
- shredded mozzarella cheese
- grated Parmesan cheese
- butter
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a frying pan, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain fat, add marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, blend cottage cheese, sour cream, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Layer the baking dish with half of the spaghetti, spread cheese mixture, then meat sauce. Repeat layers.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until cheese is bubbly.