Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich layers of pasta, a creamy cheese filling, and savory meat sauce baked into one delicious dish. It’s called “million dollar” because it tastes like a luxurious, indulgent meal—even though it’s easy and affordable to make. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, this casserole is hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghettiground beefground italiansausageoniongarlicmarinaracream cheesericotta cheesesour creamshredded mozzarella cheeseparmesan cheesebutteritalian seasoningsaltpepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, sausage, chopped onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.

Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for a few minutes.

In a bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream until smooth.

Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the baking dish.

Top with the cheese mixture and spread evenly.

Add the remaining spaghetti on top, then pour the meat sauce over the entire dish.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Dot with butter slices across the surface.

Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 65 minutes

Variations

Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter texture.

Swap ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a different flavor.

Add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese layer for extra nutrition.

Top with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish.

Use different pasta shapes like penne or rotini for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What makes it “million dollar”?

The name refers to the rich, creamy taste that feels indulgent—like it’s worth a million bucks.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Absolutely. Choose your favorite marinara or pasta sauce for convenience.

Do I have to use both beef and sausage?

No, you can use one or the other based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Can I freeze the whole casserole?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Wrap tightly and label. Bake from frozen with added cooking time.

Is it spicy?

Not unless you use spicy sausage or add chili flakes. It’s easy to adjust the spice level.

What kind of cheese works best?

Mozzarella and parmesan are classic, but you can also mix in provolone or cheddar for a twist.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, skip the meat and use a meatless sauce or sautéed vegetables instead.

Why does it need to rest before serving?

Resting helps the layers set and makes serving easier without the casserole falling apart.

What side dishes go well with it?

Garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables make perfect accompaniments.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole delivers all the flavors of a comforting Italian meal in a convenient, crowd-pleasing format. With layers of creamy cheese, hearty meat sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for a big family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a winning choice every time.