There’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, cheesy plate of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe. This dish dazzles with layers of tender spaghetti, rich Italian sausage, and a heavenly blend of cream cheeses and parmesan that all come together in one irresistible casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe delivers comfort and indulgence with every bite, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both special and satisfyingly familiar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a dish packed with flavor, texture, and beautiful color. Each component plays a vital role in turning this spaghetti casserole into a million-dollar masterpiece.
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti: The classic foundation, cooked just right to soak up all those luscious flavors.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Adds a hearty, savory punch; turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter twist.
- ½ medium onion (chopped): Offers subtle sweetness and depth to balance the meatiness.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses every bite with that unmistakable aromatic warmth.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who love a touch of heat.
- 48 ounces marinara sauce (2 jars): Provides the rich, tangy tomato goodness tying everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to create that gooey, golden topping everyone craves.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance and elevate all the other flavors.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds creamy richness and smooth texture to the cheese mixture.
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese: Brings light, fluffy creaminess that balances the dish perfectly.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Offers sharp, nutty depth and a savory punch.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor throughout the cheese blend.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy herbal note to round out the cheese mixture.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, combine the cream cheese, ricotta, freshly grated parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano in a medium bowl. Mix these together until they form a smooth, creamy blend. This luscious mixture is what gives the dish its signature richness and amazing texture.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water, but remember, timing is everything here. Take the pasta off the heat about two minutes before the package says it’s done—this prevents overcooking once it bakes, keeping every strand delightfully tender yet firm. Drain and return the spaghetti to the pot to stay warm.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Aromatics
Next, brown the Italian sausage with chopped onion in a skillet over medium-high heat. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes until the onions soften and the sausage is cooked through. Add in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for one more minute to bring out all those bold, delicious flavors. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Sauce
Mix your savory sausage and onion mixture into the spaghetti pot along with the marinara sauce. Toss everything gently to make sure every strand of pasta is deliciously coated with sauce and sausage, creating that mouthwatering base layer for your bake.
Step 5: Layer the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to get ready for assembly. Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture on the bottom, then dollop and gently spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the top. Finish by adding the remaining pasta mixture, smoothing out the layers for an even finish.
Step 6: Bake and Broil
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to let all those flavors meld and the cheese melt to perfection. Then, remove the foil and switch to broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese on top turns a gorgeous golden brown and bubbles invitingly.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, give your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe a 5 to 10-minute rest. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and giving all the layers time to harmonize for that ultimate creamy, flavorful experience.
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely pop of green and a burst of freshness that balances the rich, cheesy casserole beautifully. A dusting of extra parmesan never hurts for those who love a sharp finish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted garlic bread to scoop up every bit of saucy goodness. Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans offer a nice contrast while keeping the meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style feel, or plate it individually with a drizzle of extra marinara around the edges for a more elegant presentation. For a fun twist at gatherings, consider turning it into baked spaghetti cups using muffin tins—perfect for portion control and a cute presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an even better lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing its rich taste and creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings, covering loosely to retain moisture and heat evenly. A quick broil at the end revives that cheesey golden top beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and works wonderfully, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli if you want a different texture or to hold onto more sauce. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe by substituting the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant to keep that savory feel.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake following the instructions; you might need a few extra minutes since it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a lighter option?
Low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt can be used, though Greek yogurt will make the texture a bit thinner. Just make sure to adjust your seasoning to keep the same creamy richness.
How spicy is the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can easily leave them out for a milder dish or increase the amount if you love a noticeable kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a bit of showmanship, you can’t go wrong with the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe. It’s a heartfelt crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites. So grab your pot and cheese, invite some friends or family over, and enjoy every delicious bite together!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delicious layered pasta casserole that combines al dente spaghetti with savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses. Baked to perfection with a bubbly mozzarella topping, this hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound Italian sausage (use turkey or chicken sausage if avoiding pork)
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauces & Cheeses
- 48 ounce marinara sauce (2 jars)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Seasonings
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, freshly grated parmesan, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti in salted water, cooking it for 2 minutes less than the package instructions to ensure it remains slightly firm. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
- Cook Sausage and Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and chopped onion, cooking until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked sausage mixture and marinara sauce to the pot with the spaghetti. Toss thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly on the bottom. Carefully dollop and spread the cheese mixture over this layer. Top with the remaining pasta mixture and smooth it out.
- Add Mozzarella and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and switch to broil, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to let it set. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Million Dollar Spaghetti.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey or chicken sausage to avoid pork.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your desired spice level.
- Using freshly grated parmesan cheese greatly enhances the flavor.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps with portioning and improves texture.
- For a low-fat option, use reduced-fat cheeses and lean sausage varieties.
