Million Dollar Spaghetti
There’s something magical about Million Dollar Spaghetti—it’s a comfort food that brings smiles to the table every time. When I first made this dish, I was looking for something easy yet indulgent for a family dinner, and let me tell you, it exceeded all expectations.
The creamy layers of cheesy goodness, paired with savory spaghetti and sauce, made it an instant family favorite. It’s the perfect meal for busy moms because it’s simple to prep, feeds a crowd, and can even be made ahead of time. Whether it’s for a cozy Sunday dinner or a potluck, this dish truly feels like a million bucks!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble everything the night before, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute it with penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your needs.
Q: Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
A: Yes! Prepare the dish as instructed but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake.
Q: What type of cheese works best?
A: A combination of cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives the dish its signature creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: You can easily swap the meat sauce for marinara or use plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef.
What You Need to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Spaghetti Pasta: The base of the dish.
- Ground Beef (or Sausage): Adds savory flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
- Cream Cheese & Ricotta: Creates the creamy, rich layers.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: For that gooey, cheesy top.
- Butter: Adds richness to the pasta.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Cook the Pasta: Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with butter.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Brown the ground beef, drain excess fat, and stir in marinara sauce.
- Mix the Cheese Layer: Combine cream cheese, ricotta, and part of the mozzarella until smooth.
- Layer the Dish: Spread half the spaghetti in a baking dish, top with the cheese mixture, then add the remaining spaghetti. Pour the meat sauce over and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Cook Pasta Just Right: Keep it slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Experiment with Meat: Try Italian sausage for added spice or a mix of beef and pork.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in spinach or zucchini layers for extra nutrition.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This is my go-to potluck dish! It’s always the first to disappear.” – Sarah
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “So creamy and cheesy—my kids cleaned their plates!” – Jessica
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I loved how easy it was to assemble, and the leftovers were just as good.” – Mike
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I swapped the beef for turkey, and it still tasted amazing!” – Emily
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A little rich for me, but my family couldn’t get enough!” – Grace
Printable Recipe
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—a layered pasta bake with creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s easy to make, perfect for family dinners, and tastes like a million bucks!
Ingredients
- Spaghetti Pasta: The base of the dish.
- Ground Beef (or Sausage): Adds savory flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
- Cream Cheese & Ricotta: Creates the creamy, rich layers.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: For that gooey, cheesy top.
- Butter: Adds richness to the pasta.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with butter.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Brown the ground beef, drain excess fat, and stir in marinara sauce.
- Mix the Cheese Layer: Combine cream cheese, ricotta, and part of the mozzarella until smooth.
- Layer the Dish: Spread half the spaghetti in a baking dish, top with the cheese mixture, then add the remaining spaghetti. Pour the meat sauce over and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Check Out Some Of Our Other Recipes / Crafts
Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake
Make Delicious Ice Cream in a Bag in Just 15 Minutes
If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
Cooking is about connection, and I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your family as it does to mine. If you loved this Million Dollar Spaghetti, share the love! Post a picture of your creation, tag me on social media, and spread the word to fellow busy moms looking for easy and delicious meals. Your support means the world, and it helps others discover recipes like this one. Let’s keep the dinner table full of laughter, love, and amazing food!
