Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Save this recipe on:

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of baked pasta and creamy, cheesy goodness, Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is it. This dish is layered with rich marinara, hearty ground beef, tender spaghetti, and a luxurious mixture of cream cheese and ricotta, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for a busy weeknight.

I love how this casserole brings together the flavors of a classic lasagna but with a simpler, more approachable twist. The balance of textures—from the creamy cheese layer to the crispy, bubbly cheese on top—makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

---

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

• Incredibly creamy and cheesy – The combination of cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella creates an ultra-rich, velvety texture.
• Perfect balance of flavors – Savory meat sauce, mild cheeses, and buttery noodles make every bite satisfying.
• Great for meal prep – It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
• Feeds a crowd – This is a large, hearty dish perfect for gatherings or big family meals.
• Easy to customize – Swap the protein, adjust the cheese, or add veggies to make it your own.

---

What Type of Pasta Should I Use?

Traditional spaghetti is the best choice for this casserole because it holds up well to layering and baking. The long strands soak up the rich sauce while maintaining a slightly firm texture. However, if you prefer a different pasta shape, you can swap it out for fettuccine, penne, or even rigatoni. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when baked.

---

Options for Substitutions

• Meat Variations – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even a meatless alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Choices – While ricotta and cream cheese give this dish its signature creaminess, you can use cottage cheese as a lighter substitute.
• Sauce Swap – Store-bought marinara works great, but you can make your own homemade spaghetti sauce for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
• Lower-Calorie Version – Try using reduced-fat cheese and leaner meat to lighten up the dish.

---

Ingredients for This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Every ingredient in this dish plays a key role in creating its rich and satisfying flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:

• Spaghetti – The foundation of the dish, providing structure and texture to hold the creamy and meaty layers together.
• Ground beef – Adds hearty, savory depth to the casserole. You can mix it with Italian sausage for extra flavor.
• Marinara sauce – A flavorful tomato-based sauce that ties everything together. Opt for a high-quality jarred sauce or make your own.
• Cream cheese – Creates a luscious, velvety layer that adds richness and a slight tang.
• Ricotta cheese – Offers a smooth and creamy contrast to the hearty meat sauce. Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top, creating that golden, bubbly crust.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty kick that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Butter – Coating the noodles with butter keeps them from sticking and adds a subtle richness.
• Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture, giving the casserole structure when baked.
• Garlic and onions – Essential aromatics that build flavor in the meat sauce.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
• Salt and pepper – Balances the flavors and brings out the richness of the ingredients.

---

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and toss with melted butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

---

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg until smooth. This creamy mixture adds a luscious, rich texture to the casserole.

---

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread half of the spaghetti in a greased baking dish.
• Layer the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
• Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
• Pour the meat sauce over the entire dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

---

Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan over the top. This creates that irresistible, golden-brown cheesy crust.

---

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

---

How Long to Cook Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole bakes at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes in total. Covering it for the first 30 minutes ensures the cheese doesn’t brown too quickly while allowing the flavors to meld. The last 10-15 minutes uncovered gives it that beautifully golden, bubbly top. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to help it set.

---

Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

• Cook pasta al dente – Slightly undercooked pasta holds up better when baked, preventing a mushy texture.
• Use room-temperature cream cheese – This makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth, creamy layer.
• Drain the ground beef well – Too much grease can make the dish oily.
• Layer evenly – Spread the cheese and sauce layers as evenly as possible for a perfect bite every time.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to cool slightly helps it hold its shape when sliced.
• Customize the cheese – Mix in some provolone or cheddar for extra cheesy goodness.
• Make it ahead – Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta – If the spaghetti is too soft before baking, it can turn mushy in the casserole. Cook it al dente.
• Not draining the beef – Excess grease will make the casserole oily and heavy. Drain well after browning.
• Skipping the layering process – Proper layering ensures every bite has the perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
• Using cold cream cheese – It won’t mix smoothly with the ricotta. Let it soften at room temperature before blending.
• Forgetting to let it rest – If you cut into the casserole too soon, the layers might fall apart. Give it 10 minutes to set.
• Not seasoning properly – Taste your sauce before assembling the casserole to ensure it’s well-seasoned.
• Burning the cheese – Keep an eye on the casserole in the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
• Skipping the butter on pasta – This step keeps the noodles from clumping together.

---

What to Serve With Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery side that’s perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with creamy dressing balances the richness of the casserole.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition.

4. Green Beans Almondine

Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds bring a nutty crunch to the meal.

5. Italian Chopped Salad

A mix of lettuce, olives, salami, and tangy vinaigrette complements the pasta.

6. Bruschetta

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic on toasted bread provide a bright contrast.

7. Sautéed Spinach

A simple, garlicky spinach side adds a healthy element to the meal.

8. Antipasto Platter

A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes for a fun, shareable appetizer.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Once cooled, store leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until hot.

Make-Ahead Option

You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~500-600 kcal
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Fat: ~25g
• Saturated Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~6g
• Sodium: ~900mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine for a different texture.

3. How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?

Make sure your pasta is well-coated in sauce and don’t overbake it. Covering it with foil for most of the baking time helps retain moisture.

4. Can I make it without meat?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or simply use extra cheese and vegetables for a vegetarian version.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil.

6. Can I freeze this casserole after baking?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

7. How do I get a crispy cheese topping?

During the last few minutes of baking, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

8. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

---

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, potlucks, or meal prep. With its rich layers of pasta, creamy cheese, and savory meat sauce, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. If you love this recipe, save it on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family! Happy cooking!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: